Southern Wisconsin Farm Fresh Atlas now available

In Southern Wisconsin, it is relatively easy to find, cook, eat and even preserve locally grown food. There are farmers’ markets every day of the week. Pick-your-own farms and Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) farms dot the map. Many grocery stores, co-ops and restaurants offer local fare.

The 2008 Southern Wisconsin Farm Fresh Atlas makes it easy to find local food in our region. This free, 40-page booklet lists over 150 farms, farmers’ markets and food-related businesses that sell fruits, vegetables, meats, cheese, milk, eggs and other products.

Beginning April 19, the Southern Wisconsin Farm Fresh Atlas will be available at the Dane County Farmers' Market information booth at the top of State Street. It will also be available at additional farmers' markets, public libraries, farms, food co-ops and other area businesses. For a complete list of distribution sites, go to www.reapfoodgroup.org.

“With rising fuel costs and worries about climate change, more and more people want to eat good food grown close to home,” said Judy Hageman, who grows winter spinach, flowers, tomatoes and other vegetables at Snug Haven Farm. “Whether you’re looking for quality ingredients for home-cooked meals or a great restaurant offering local food, you can find it in the Farm Fresh Atlas.”

The Southern Wisconsin Farm Fresh Atlas makes it easy to support local farms, businesses and organizations that are working to provide food in a way that protects our natural resources for future generations. Each vendor listed in the atlas pledges to protect our land and water resources, treat animals with care and respect and provide safe working conditions for their employees.

The 2008 Southern Wisconsin Farm Fresh Atlas is a collaborative project of the REAP Food Group, the Dane County Farmers' Market, the UW-Madison Center for Integrated Agricultural Systems and the Friends of the Dane County Farmers' Market. It is underwritten by Heartland Credit Union, with major financial support provided by local businesses and organizations.

The atlas will be distributed as an insert in the May issue of the Sustainable Times.

If you are interested in distributing copies of the 2008 Southern Wisconsin Farm Fresh Atlas, or would like more information about this resource, please contact Miriam Grunes at (608) 294-1114 or miriamg@reapfoodgroup.org.

Reap Food Group: www.reapfoodgroup.org