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The Family Farm is the Heart of America
Family farms are at the heart of rural communities across the country. These farmers produce high quality food and work to protect soil, air and water as well as biodiversity of crops and animals.
Family farms are not able to achieve the efficiencies that come with
large-scale operations. However, family farms are generally more
efficient in protecting plant and animal diversity and in limiting
waste products. If they are able to market their products directly to
consumers at farmers markets or through the Internet eliminating the
middlemen.
Family farmers are taking advantage of selling their products at local markets or directly through the Internet rather than competing through international commodity markets.
In traditional food markets, approximately 91 cents of every dollar
spent on food goes to suppliers, processors, middlemen and marketers,
most of who are not based in the community. By selling directly to
consumers, as much as 80 cents of each food dollar goes right to the
farmer.
When the income of a family farm increases the impact is felt in the
local community. By purchasing more goods and services at local
businesses the farmer is directly helping his or her community.
Family farms are the foundation of strong communities. They allow
consumers to enjoy a connection to their food and to enjoy healthier
food.
Posted by Patti on June 11, 2007
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