Grow Local

Buying fresh veggies (and other items) locally is one option if you're concerned about food borne illness or pesticide residue.

What if you… can't afford to buy everything local, want more exercise, or just like fresh vegetables? Then… start a vegetable garden!

Nothing is quite as local and fresh as produce grown in your own back yard or community garden. Garden activities like soil preparation and pulling weeds provide plenty of exercise and can be a welcome relief after a long day at work.

If you’ve never had a garden before don’t worry its easy to get started. If I had to give one piece of advice it would be to: start simple and plant things that are relatively easy to grow. Certain vegetable crops such as lettuce, tomatoes, peas, and beans are easier to grow than asparagus, watermelons, peppers, and onions.

Where’s a good place to find gardening information? Information for local gardeners can be found through the cooperative extension, books, or on line sources.