Join us as we talk with Jessica Riles, UF/IFAS Agriculture and Sustainable Food Systems agent in Collier County, and chair of the Southwest Florida Small Farmer Network. Jessica shares her transition from local government to supporting small farmers, discussing the importance of community support, relationship-building, and how the Southwest Florida Small Farmer Network connects farmers with vital resources.

We also dive into the challenges small farmers face, like labor shortages and high land costs, and explore innovative solutions like the Southwest Florida Fresh initiative. Jessica highlights how strategic planning, marketing, and collaboration are empowering local farmers and strengthening sustainable food systems in the region.

Thursday September 26 Fall Southwest Florida Small Farmer Network Meeting

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Can you trust what’s on your plate? In this episode of Fresh Take, we explore the critical role of maintaining integrity in USDA-certified organic products. We're joined by Orsi Dézsi, Executive Director and CEO of OMRI, who shares insights on how OMRI ensures organic inputs meet stringent standards and fortifies consumer trust in the organic label. Discover OMRI’s journey to listing 10,000 certified products and its pivotal role in guiding organic operations.

We also dive into the Strengthening Organic Enforcement (SOE) rule, designed to strengthens oversight and enforcement of the production, handling, and sale of organic products. Orsi discusses SOE’s impact on OMRI, particularly in processing aids now requiring organic certification, and highlights how USDA organic standards stand out among food labels.

Tune in and stay informed on the latest in organic certification and enforcement!

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Due to the ongoing federal funding freeze, we must redirect our efforts to other FOG programs. But we need your help to keep programs like Fresh Take and other FOG initiatives alive!

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Join us for an inspiring conversation with Catt Fields White, founder of Farmers Market Pros and co-host of the Tent Talk podcast, as we celebrate the 25th anniversary of National Farmers Market Week. Discover Catt’s journey from establishing the thriving Little Italy Mercato in San Diego to her ongoing efforts to support new markets. We explore the transformative impact of farmers markets on communities and local economies, delving into challenges farmers face, the importance of authenticity and transparency, and the evolving landscape of farmers markets. Catt offers valuable advice for vendors and market managers on navigating regulations, pricing, marketing, and community engagement.

Catt also shares her work promoting financial sustainability, community engagement, and entrepreneurship through Farmers Market Pros. From online courses to national conferences, her efforts support small farmers and market managers across the US and Canada. As an advocate for local food systems and a member of several farmers market coalitions, Catt's dedication to preserving healthy food options for future generations is truly inspiring. Tune in to gain a wealth of knowledge and insights into the vibrant world of farmers markets. Whether you're a market enthusiast or an aspiring vendor, this episode is a must-listen!

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Due to the ongoing federal funding freeze, we must redirect our efforts to other FOG programs. But we need your help to keep programs like Fresh Take and other FOG initiatives alive!

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Can agriculture heal the invisible wounds of war? Join us as we talk with John Jackson, an Army Ranger with six tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, about his journey from enlistment after 9/11 to finding peace through farming. At Comfort Farms in Milledgeville, Georgia, John helps veterans cope with post-traumatic stress using farming as therapy. Discover how Comfort Farms combines behavioral therapy with agricultural work and community events, fostering teamwork and genuine connections. Tune in to learn about these impactful initiatives and how you can support our veterans.

Support the show

Due to the ongoing federal funding freeze, we must redirect our efforts to other FOG programs. But we need your help to keep programs like Fresh Take and other FOG initiatives alive!

Become a sponsor today! Your sponsorship is crucial for us to continue providing essential programs, including this podcast. Visit our sponsor page now to learn more and join our community of supporters. Together, we can make a significant impact!

Are you aware of the hidden dangers lurking in your fruits and vegetables? Join us on Fresh Take for an eye-opening discussion with Juan Carlos Rodriguez, an Education and Outreach Specialist at Florida Organic Growers. We promise you’ll gain critical insights into the "Dirty Dozen," a list of produce most contaminated with pesticides, and understand the potential health risks these chemicals pose.

In this episode, we unravel the origins and mission of the Environmental Working Group (EWG), established in 1993, and explore how they educate the public using data from the USDA and FDA. You'll learn why strawberries and other crops are heavily sprayed, especially in climates like Florida's, and the regulations in place to ensure consumer safety. 

Discover the truths and misconceptions surrounding organic farming as we clarify the selective use of natural and approved synthetic pest control products. We also highlight emerging evidence linking conventional pesticides to serious health issues, including hormonal disruptions and developmental problems. This episode is a must-listen for anyone committed to maintaining a healthy and sustainable lifestyle.

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Due to the ongoing federal funding freeze, we must redirect our efforts to other FOG programs. But we need your help to keep programs like Fresh Take and other FOG initiatives alive!

Become a sponsor today! Your sponsorship is crucial for us to continue providing essential programs, including this podcast. Visit our sponsor page now to learn more and join our community of supporters. Together, we can make a significant impact!

Discover how your daily cup of coffee can transform lives and support the planet! In this podcast, we sit down with Tripp Pomeroy, co-owner and CEO of Sweetwater Organic Coffee. Tripp shares his journey from working with Latin American landscapers to championing fair trade practices in the coffee industry. Learn how Sweetwater's ethical approach benefits small-scale farmers and promotes sustainable agriculture.

Explore the secrets of fair trade and transparency as Tripp discusses Sweetwater's cooperative model with Co-op Coffees. Discover the real-world impact of fair trade certifications and how they foster trust and accountability across the supply chain.

Concerned about the hidden costs of cheap food and environmental impacts? Tripp dives into the benefits of organic coffee farming and the role of certifications in promoting soil health and sustainability. Hear about innovative solutions like carbon sequestration payments that support farmers in adopting sustainable practices.

Join us to uncover how Sweetwater Organic Coffee is leading the way in ethical commerce and what the future holds for fair trade and sustainable agriculture.

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Due to the ongoing federal funding freeze, we must redirect our efforts to other FOG programs. But we need your help to keep programs like Fresh Take and other FOG initiatives alive!

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In this episode we chat with Hannah Wooten, a UF IFAS extension agent from Orange County, Florida, about how urban development and sustainable agriculture intersect in local food systems. Hannah's journey from Valencia Community College to her work in horticulture and ethnobotany shows us the deep connection between plants and people.

We learn about innovative farmers who are blending self-sustaining ecosystems with urban waste management. Collaboration between urban planners, chefs, restaurateurs, and entrepreneurs is key to supporting local farmers.

Challenges like zoning and land use planning are discussed, highlighting the need to update codes to strengthen local food connections in Central Florida. Hannah and other extension agents provide essential tools and info to local food leaders, driving community growth.

We also talk about collaborative efforts to help farmers and food entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of education, self-determination, and community support. Tune in to find out how to tap into resources from UF IFAS and connect with local extension agents to promote sustainable agriculture in your area.

Find your local Extension Agent at: https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/find-your-local-office/ 

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Due to the ongoing federal funding freeze, we must redirect our efforts to other FOG programs. But we need your help to keep programs like Fresh Take and other FOG initiatives alive!

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Can food recovery revolutionize our approach to food waste and sustainability? Find out as we sit down with Emily Grant, Director of Florida Operations for foodrecovery.org, who shares her incredible journey from urban planning to leading food recovery efforts. Emily’s story is rooted in community engagement, from her hands-on work in a Sarasota community garden to her strategic role with UF IFAS Extension's Family Nutrition Program. Her experiences have paved the way for a remarkable career dedicated to reducing food waste and supporting communities in need.

Get ready to rethink your food habits as we explore practical strategies for reducing food waste at home and the significant environmental impacts of these efforts. We discuss savvy techniques like freezing overripe fruits and flash-freezing vegetables, using food scraps to make stock, and the benefits of home composting. We also touch on larger systemic changes, such as policy implementation and curbside compost pickups, that can create broader environmental benefits and significantly lower CO2 emissions.

Tune in to this transformative episode and learn how you can contribute to a more sustainable food system.

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Due to the ongoing federal funding freeze, we must redirect our efforts to other FOG programs. But we need your help to keep programs like Fresh Take and other FOG initiatives alive!

Become a sponsor today! Your sponsorship is crucial for us to continue providing essential programs, including this podcast. Visit our sponsor page now to learn more and join our community of supporters. Together, we can make a significant impact!

Unlock the potential of organic farming in the Southeast with guidance from experts Amanda Rose Newton and Emily Deruelle of Florida Organic Growers. Our enlightening conversation peels back the layers of the Southeast Transition to Organic Partnership Program (SE-TOPP), and you'll gain invaluable insights into developing successful organic practices and connecting with a thriving community.

 Learn about the program's inception, its key areas of focus, and the invaluable support it provides to both mentors and mentees. Discover how you can get involved and benefit from this program.

Plus, don't miss the upcoming workshop: Preparing for Organic Inspections May 30, 2024 at 12 EST. Find out more and register at https://bit.ly/3Wr8Zy3

If you're passionate about organic farming, this podcast is a must-listen!

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Due to the ongoing federal funding freeze, we must redirect our efforts to other FOG programs. But we need your help to keep programs like Fresh Take and other FOG initiatives alive!

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In this episode of Fresh Take, we welcome special guests Hank and Jessica from Allison Acres to discuss their journey into organic blueberry farming. Hank, a retired FBI agent, shares his inspiration for transitioning to farming, influenced by his background in law enforcement. Jessica, with a background in Environmental Science, talks about her start in agriculture and her role at Allison Acres.

They elaborate on their decision to pursue blueberry farming and shed light on the challenges organic farmers encounter, such as disease management and climate change. Additionally, they delve into soil management techniques, blueberry species selection, and their dedication to environmental stewardship through initiatives like "This Farm CARES" and their involvement in the WWOOF (Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms )program. Hank and Jessica’s commitment extends beyond producing delicious, healthy produce; it's about nurturing a healthy planet and community, one blueberry at a time.

Additionally, they invite listeners to an upcoming special event in collaboration with Florida Organic Growers' Florida Local Food Project, the Spring Farm Tour a part of Millstone Institute 2024 Farm Tour!

This event provides an excellent opportunity to network, learn from experts, and foster meaningful connections with others who are passionate about local food May 18, 2024! Registration is free!

Secure your spots at: https://bit.ly/4cU3TAn

Support the show

Due to the ongoing federal funding freeze, we must redirect our efforts to other FOG programs. But we need your help to keep programs like Fresh Take and other FOG initiatives alive!

Become a sponsor today! Your sponsorship is crucial for us to continue providing essential programs, including this podcast. Visit our sponsor page now to learn more and join our community of supporters. Together, we can make a significant impact!