| Rutland Regional Planning Commission |
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The Opera House Tel: 802.775.0871 Fax: 802.775.1766
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Rutland Area Farm and Food Link The Rutland Area Farm and Food Link is a collaborative partnership, connecting local agriculture with consumers and communities in Rutland County. VisionRutland County has a diverse and thriving agricultural industry supported by residents and communities throughout the area.
RAFFL is a community-based organization which
supports an economically viable and diverse agricultural industry. MissionTo connect an economically viable and diverse agricultural industry with local communities and consumers. To promote an economically and diverse agricultural industry which supports dynamic communities. To connect all people in Rutland County area to local agriculture resulting in viable farms and communities. Background: In 2004 the Rutland Regional Planning Commission in partnership with Vermont Fresh Network, Green Mountain College and the Poultney-Mettowee Natural Resources Conservation District took the lead to bring together a diverse range of people from towns and organizations throughout the region having an interest in supporting agriculture. Steering Committee: A steering committee was formed to focus on the economic, environmental, and social role of agriculture in the region. The result has been the formation of the Rutland Area Farm and Food Link, (RAFFL), a partnership of diverse individuals interested in supporting agriculture in the Rutland area, particularly our local farms producing food and fiber. The group is currently determining ways to increase local consumer demand for regionally produced products, educate consumers and youth, and create an awareness of agriculture in Rutland County. Farm Incubator Committee: The Rutland Area Farm and Food Link has identified a need for a program to nurture beginning farmers, that will in turn start agriculturally based business in the Region. The incubator farm would be a place where new farmers get their enterprises started and build their markets before making a significant capital investment. The vision for the incubator farm is for it to operate as a regional agricultural center supporting a community based food system by providing resources that encourage farm enterprises and expand local agriculture in the community. This committee is working with the Intervale Foundation, The Vermont Land Trust, George Aiken Resource Conservation and Development Council, the Rutland Regional Planning Commission and other collaborators, to work through the logistics of getting the farm up and running. A land search and funding strategy are also being pursued. Financial Support: Through a Municipal Planning grant, Rutland Area Farm and Food Link has hired a part-time coordinator. A grant from the New England Grass Roots Environment Fund is supporting the 5-5-50 projects. The Vermont Land Trust has contributed $2,500 towards initial planning of the Incubator Farm. The George D. Aiken Resource and Conservation and Development Council has offered to provide fiscal oversight and grant management for the organization. A number of partner organizations and farmers provide in-kind support to this effort. Future Plans: Plans are underway for a number of projects, including a “heart of Vermont agriculture” branding initiative, web page, a 5-5-50 Campaign and media promotion all aimed at encouraging the purchase local products. Membership: Individuals and organizations interested in supporting the long-term viability of local agriculture are invited to join. The group holds regular monthly meetings to discuss ideas and topics for addressing key issues and strategize implementation of projects. Why buy local food? Click here for more information For more information about this project, contact Tara Kelly at 802-775-0871. |
