local food

Vermont is nationally known for its strong food and farm heritage, dating back thousands of years. In this Dish discussion, we’ll explore the ways that our production of dairy products, maple syrup, and fruits and vegetables are similar to earlier times, as well as some recent innovations that are quite different. This program dives into Vermont’s culinary traditions to learn about the way people cooked and ate over the centuries, from indigenous Abenaki to European settlers. The program also explores what Vermonters are doing today to keep that culinary history alive, and how they are forging new traditions. Brought to you by City Market and the Intervale Center with special thanks to ArtsRiot.

Vermont’s weather is evolving in wild, unpredictable ways. Long-term meteorological trends show the state becoming warmer and wetter. How will farmers adapt to the environmental upheaval and keep food growing through fast-shifting weather patterns? How will these changes ripple through the distribution chain — and how will they affect what Vermonters eat in restaurants, institutions, and at family tables?

Listen to a panel of local experts for a lively discussion on the challenges and rewards of growing food in a changing climate — now and into the future. Part of the Intervale Center and City Market Dish Series.

Speakers include: Andy Jones, Intervale Community Farm; Joshua Faulkner, UVM Extension; Jeff Jones, Vermont Hydroponic Produce; Eleanor Tison, Green Mountain College

“Local” is a popular buzzword in our food system, but even if food is grown locally, does that mean it’s more accessible? According to US Census data, 13% of Vermont households are food insecure, meaning they don’t have access to enough food to meet basic needs at all times.  While creating economic opportunities for Vermont farmers and food producers has been a major goal within our state, the development of the local food system hasn’t necessarily made food more affordable for people experiencing food insecurity.  We’ll explore this multifaceted issue and discuss innovative approaches during a lively panel discussion with local food producers and representatives from organizations focused on alleviating food insecurity in Vermont. Part of the Intervale Center and City Market Dish Series.

Wetter spring soils, drier summers, and pests that move north are just some of the realities Vermont gardeners face with climate change, says writer and gardener Ellen Michaud.  To help gardeners better understand the challenges of climate change, and suggest strategies to deal with it, three UVM experts lead this workshop. Presenters include: Vermont state climatologist Leley-Ann Dupigny-Giroux, UVM researcher Rachel Schattman, UVM Extension professor Leonard Perry.  Organized by Northwest Chapter of UVM Extension Master Gardener program.