DRIFTLESS WISCONSIN GROWN

WELCOME!

We are a collaboration of local farmers and consumers, partnered to grow a local food economy in the Drifltess Wisconsin region. We are committed to food that has been locally grown by sustainable farming practices. Our members value local economic development by supporting our local farmers and reaping the benefits of fresh, tastier food grown by our neighbors who are good stewards of this land.

LOCAL FOODS IN THE DRIFTLESS AREA

In recent years, the idea of local foods has become quite popular. But what does it mean to us in Driftless Wisconsin and why is it important? Buying local, at its simplest, means buying food from farms as close to home as possible Some local farmers practice an agriculture using methods that do not deplete soil, water, air, wildlife or human community resources. Not all local products may be grown this way, so ask the local farmers you meet to share their growing practices with you.

SUPPORT OUR LOCAL ECONOMY!
Buying local foods supports our local economic development by recirculating dollars into our own community. That translates to supporting our area farmers and other businesses on which they rely.

REAP THE HEALTH BENEFITS
Fresh, local foods not only taste better, they are of high quality and nutritional value. That means greater health benefits to you and your family. Investing our dollars in wholesome, healthy food choices, we can help reduce our healthcare costs.

KNOW WHERE YOUR FOOD COMES FROM
When you buy close to the source, you can have peace of mind in knowing the path your food has traveled form a nearby farm to your plate. When you buy from sustainable local farmers, you have the benefit of knowing firsthand how your food was grown and handled.

MINIMIZE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
Reducing the distance that food is transported from farm to plate has direct benefits to our environment by reducing the consumption of fossil fuels. Buying local foods in season reduces demand for foods that must be shipped long distances by air, land or sea. It also helps to preserve the health of our area farmlands and ecosystems.

WHERE TO FIND LOCAL

The Driftless Wisconsin Grown members as well as others in the area offer a wide variety of seasonal produce, meat, eggs, cheese, honey, maple syrup and nuts. By even purchasing one item locally each week, you are making a contribution to the local food economy! Here's where to look:

Farmer's Markets. Enjoy stopping by your local farmer's market to select your fresh foods for your weekly menu.

Community-Supported Agriculture (CSAs). CSAs provide a direct link between you and a local farmer. You may purchase a share in a farmer's crop for produce, meat, eggs, etc. Weekly on-farm pickups or in-town drop off locations are often available during the growing season.

Direct from the Producer & Pick Your Own. Check with area farmers about buying directly from their farm. Some farms also offer a pick your own option, such as for berries, apples and pumpkins, where you can pick the produce yourself and pay on-site.

Farm-to-School Programs. Many are schools incorporate local food in the cafeteria, healthy snack program or "Harvest of the Month" that features local products in tasting and fun hands-on classroom lessons, farm field trips and school gardens. Please contact DWG if you are interested in selling to a school or learning about volunteer opportunities.

Grocery Stores & Restaurants. Ask your grocer and favorite restaurants if they purchase food from local farmers. If they do not, suggest what local products you would like to see there!

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