Gilmer Free Press

Coalition Aiming To Link WV Farms and Consumers

Strengthening the link between people who produce food and people who consume it is the focus of a forum in Berkeley Springs.

The West Virginia Food and Farm Coalition and the West Virginia University Extension Service are organizing a regional roundtable discussion at the Panorama at the Peak restaurant.

Organizer Savanna Lyons tells The Journal of Martinsburg the idea is to keep farms viable and food affordable.

Meetings in Clarksburg were tough for everyone to attend, so a series of regional meetings is being held instead.

Past discussions have tackled issues such as how to improve school and hospital food, and regulatory concerns. This fall, Lyons says working groups will tackle the top five issues identified in the regional meetings.

More information: WV Community Development Hub

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I’m glad to read this article.  We need a stronger local producer-consumer relationship not only in WV but in our entire nation. 

I hope this group has the power to address some of the regulations that strangle the small producer and the personal consumer today.  While I understand the need for regulations for large producers selling to schools, hospitals, etc., I also find it frustrating that I cannot buy whole unpasteurized milk or rabbit meat from my neighbor due to all the red tape.

I also find it frustrating that I cannot find clear information on what constitutes an approved kitchen for those who wish to home-can goods and sell them at farmers markets. 

The small producers and consumers need a voice; hopefully this group will be able to give them one.