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Big step, and a fabulous adventure awaits you!  Here's a simple first contact to get started - Friends of Family Farmers http://www.friendsoffamilyfarmers.org/.  They hold monthly gatherings in the Metro are to share and learn, connect people with resources of land, tools, ideas, and advocate for the small farmer. OSU also has a Small Farms program http://smallfarms.oregonstate.edu/beginning-farmers is another interesting place to go for information and perhaps find a Small Farms Extension agent to talk with.

Good Luck!  I'm excited to think of you taking this step.  We need more of you.  Maybe I'll get brave myself, one day....Karen

posted 2 years, 12 months ago
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The challenge of limited resources to apply to this issue is true for both the small farmer and our ODA.  And there are mechanisms in place that allow for the management of food safety in the farm-direct arena that do not require huge investment, fees, fines and regulations for the small farm/"farm-direct" segment of ag producers. Oregon and Washington have in place comprehensive farm-direct marketing guidelines for just this segment of agriculture.

Those who farm fewer than 200 acres (the majority of Oregon growers) who grow and direct-market their products through farm stands, farmers markets, institutional contracts are a traditional source of fresh food in this nation and state. They represent a prime economic and community development opportunity for small rural communities and entrepreneurs around the state. They should be encouraged and supported to continue to do so as they, with proper handling and awareness, provide the most secure and safe products in the food system.  This is an opportunity and necessity that we can't and shouldn't ignore.

Evidence points to specific areas of the agri-business where food safety oversight and regulation should be prioritized, and this is the arena of large, multi-sourced food production and processing.  And those entities DO have money to ensure proper regulations and inspections, and SHOULD be "encouraged" to step up to protect their customers - through FDA or USDA.

posted 3 years, 6 months ago
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