The Barefoot Gardens, located in Macomb, Ill, is a market garden that works with nature to offer organic foods to local residents.
The Barefoot Gardens is a Community Supported Agriculture program. The food is grown on the garden and residents come to pick out the food they would like. The Barefoot Gardens grows up to 300 varieties of vegetation.
Besides offering food, the Barefoot Gardens have a social aspect to its existence. John Curtis, farmer and coordinator, explains how the Barefoot Gardens are known as a third place
“It’s [Barefoot Gardens] is a place that’s not work, not home, where you run into people you know.” Says Curtis.
To add to the appeal of the Barefoot Gardens, Curtis arranged everything so that it is consumer friendly.
“I designed the landscape with people in mind.” Curtis adds.
The Barefoot Gardens continue to supply naturally grown food even in a time when industrialization of food causes a decline in rural agriculture. Its continually strive is due to help from outside farmers and volunteers.
“Springfield [Ill} farmers come to Macomb to help out.” Curtis says.
The Barefoot Gardens is one of the only remaining “pick your own” CSA garden. Consumers are allowed to come onto the farm and pick whatever foods they would like.
“Consumers picking their own food is better for them rather than giving them an already made basket because what if the customer doesn’t want a bunch of squash.” Curtis says jokingly.
The Barefoot Gardens act as educators. They inform consumers about the improper handling and manufacturing of foods that are in the local markets The Barefoot Gardens are also advocates for other farmers in the region. The staff speaks out against things that may negatively affect farms. The Barefoot Gardens are against the placement of hog kennels, which can be damaging to the farms. The staff also urges consumers to help in protecting the farms.
“Consumers have the biggest effect on agriculture.” Curtis says.
No comments:
Post a Comment