Northeast Organic Farming Association of Vermont (NOFA-VT) Celebrates 40 Years of Organic Farming and Launches First Capital Campaign
4’0 years ago in Putney, Vermont, a small group of farmers gathered to talk about how to market their crops, be better farmers, and share their techniques for growing wholesome, healthy food. That was the beginning of the Northeast Organic Farming Association (NOFA). There are now 7 NOFA chapters in the Northeast. Since 1971, NOFA Vermont has facilitated the extraordinary growth in Vermont’s food landscape through educational programs, establishment of farmers’ markets and Community Supported Agriculture (CSA), and development of an organic certification program, Vermont Organic Farmers.
In celebration of 40 years of organic farming, NOFA Vermont is launching the Taking Root Capital Campaign, to raise $325,000 for the purchase of a new home in Richmond. A new office will increase NOFA Vermont’s capacity to serve as a networking hub and give us a stronger base from which to mentor beginner farmers, increase the acreage in organic production, nurture the growth of local and regional markets, and increase access to local and organic food for all Vermonters.
NOFA-VT has increased the number of organic farmers and producers in Vermont from 17 in 1985 to 580 in 2010. Charlie Nardozzi, gardening expert of Ferrisburgh says, ‘NOFA-VT is one of the key organizations responsible for the revival of farming in Vermont. NOFA has helped not only preserve Vermont’s agricultural heritage, but is helping it grow into a new and vibrant era.’
The 40th anniversary celebration is set for October 1st at High Meadows Farm in Wesminster West, near the site of NOFA-VT’s birthplace. Attendees will be able to participate in the launch of an online-auction to support the Taking Root Capital Campaign. ‘We look forward to getting many of the founders back together this fall, along with all our current members and friends, near the site where the original scheming took place,’ said Enid Wonnacott, NOFA-VT Executive Director. ‘We want to celebrate that vision and the learning community that was spawned and has grown for over 40 years.’
About NOFA-VT
NOFA Vermont is member-based organization working to grow local farms, healthy food, and strong communities in Vermont. Our members are farmers, gardeners, educators and food lovers of all sorts ‘ anyone who wants to help us create a future full of local food and local farms. Our programs include farmer and gardener technical assistance, farm to school support, organic certification, advocacy, an online apprentice and farm worker directory, an annual Winter Conference, and programs that work to ensure access to fresh, local food to all Vermonters, regardless of income.
Burlington, VT August 2, 2011