I was in the grocery store in Oskaloosa, Iowa this past week and saw a sign advertising “local” apples for sale from Sparta, Michigan. “Local” was from 480 miles away, a 7 hour and 30-minute drive from said store, on land east and north of Chicago.
With less than 1% of the land Iowa uses for corn and soybean, we could grow ALL THE APPLES needed in the U.S. Of course, they wouldn't be 'local' for folks in other states but that gives you an idea of what we could do here.
Thank you Beth! Local would provide opportunities for farmers to upscale and expand. Less corn, more veggies!
Another great essay, Beth!!!
With less than 1% of the land Iowa uses for corn and soybean, we could grow ALL THE APPLES needed in the U.S. Of course, they wouldn't be 'local' for folks in other states but that gives you an idea of what we could do here.
All great points Beth! You nail the frustration of true local growers well!