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Newport Vineyards in Fall, photo by Marianne Lee Photography
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News Bites: RI Food Policy Council New Member Applications / Newport Vineyards Brings Home Gold / October Farm to School Month / 2017 Outstanding Dairy Farm Escobar Farm

by David Dadekian October 23, 2017
written by David Dadekian

Current news releases—Eat Drink RI is not the source for these items—please follow any links for more information.

The Rhode Island Food Policy Council (RIFPC) seeks applications for new Council members

Rhode Island Food Policy CouncilWhere we have been:
We have accomplished a lot in the past five years. Those early years were about helping build a network around food as a system, and in the last year we have been thrilled to be involved with the development of the first ever Rhode Island Food Strategy.

Where we are headed:
With the launch of the RI Food Strategy, the overarching task in the next year is to help drive execution and implementation of the Strategy, while also taking the opportunity for an internal evaluation.

The evolution of RIFPC:
The coming year will mark transition for the Council, and we seek innovative and energetic individuals to join and help chart the course. We will look to shift staffing, structures, and communications, as well as internal processes and organizational culture. We want to ensure that we are creating opportunities for all to come to the table and shape the next phase, with increased transparency both during and after the nominations process.

We acknowledge that the makeup of the Council has not matched the diversity of all Rhode Islanders, and we seek to improve on this thoughtfully and intentionally. We recognize the value of diversity in backgrounds and experience, and the importance of raising up voices that have historically been marginalized, as we all work together to a stronger and more resilient Rhode Island food system.

Deadline for applications: November 1, 2017, apply online here.


Newport Vineyards Brings Home Gold from the 13th Atlantic Seaboard Wine Competition

Newport Vineyards in Fall, photo by Marianne Lee Photography

Newport Vineyards in Fall, photo by Marianne Lee Photography

Newport Vineyards, an award winning winery located in beautiful Middletown, RI, won Gold and Silver from the 13th Atlantic Seaboard Wine Competition. Newport Vineyards 2016 Dry Rosé brought home Gold as the Best of Category for Vinifera Rose Wines and Silver was awarded for the 2016 Gewürztraminer in the Best of Category for Gewürztraminer. The Atlantic Seaboard Wine Association is one of the oldest wine organizations located on the East Coast. Both wines have been top sellers during 2017 and have sold out before the end of the season. Despite Winemaker George Chelf doubling the production of the Dry Rosé from last year, the wine was sold out before summer’s end.

Founded by brothers John & Paul Nunes in 1995, Newport Vineyards is the largest grower of grapes in New England. The winery produces nearly 30,000 cases of estate-grown wine each year through sustainable farming methods on 75 acres of historically preserved farmland. Following a multi-million dollar renovation completed in 2015, the winery has become a culinary and wine destination offering multiple experiences including daily tours and tastings, 100% from scratch culinary programs at Brix Restaurant and The Vineyard Café, The Marketplace, seasonal live music, private events and year-round public activities.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon sipping wine and local beer with friends amid the vines, a leisurely lunch, enjoying a gourmet dinner, or hosting a private event, Newport Vineyards truly has it all. Located just 45 minutes from downtown Providence, experience the harvest at its finest on Aquidneck Island.


Governor Raimondo Declares October as Farm to School Month in RI

Farm Fresh RI Farm to School Gardening with Boys & Girls Clubs of Providence

Farm Fresh RI Farm to School Gardening with Boys & Girls Clubs of Providence

Governor Gina Raimondo has signed an official proclamation declaring October as Farm to School Month in Rhode Island. This is in alignment with National Farm to School Month, designated by Congress in 2010, as an annual celebration of food education, school gardens, and lunch trays filled with nutritious,local ingredients. “I am so pleased to celebrate Rhode Island Farm to School Month. Connecting kids to healthful, local food while also supporting our local agriculture and food economy is a win-win for the State,” said the State Director of Food Policy, Sue Anderbois. “This work is just part of the fabric of who Rhode Island is. A big thank you to Farm Fresh Rhode Island, our schools, and so many other partners who work so hard to make these initiatives successful.”

To celebrate Farm to School Month, schools across the state are hosting events to bring awareness to Farm to School work in Rhode Island and highlight the connection between local farmers, eaters, and food literacy. Providence Public School District is gearing up for the Great Apple Crunch Day, a day-long celebration of Rhode Island grown apples. Anderbois will be in Providence on Thursday, October 12, at an Apple Crunch event at Lima Elementary School to read the governor’s proclamation and congratulate the district for its continued commitment to supporting local farmers.

Schools and districts can participate in Apple Crunch Day by purchasing and serving Rhode Island grown apples in their meal programs and by “crunching” into apples together as a way to bring awareness to fresh, local produce. Pell Elementary School in Newport is also hosting school-wide Apple Crunch festivities on October 27. For the past several years, the Newport Public School District has celebrated its commitment to Farm to School by hosting an Apple Crunch to bring awareness to the importance of fresh, healthy, and local food in school meals.

“Our Farm to School program provides great opportunities for local farmers to have access to institutional markets and expand their operations to help meet the needs of the community,” said Thea Upham, Community Access Program Director at Farm Fresh Rhode Island. “When school kids are the recipients of fresh, local foods, they are more likely to eat meals at school and actually enjoy them.”

Members of the National Farm to School Network, the RI Farm to School program is part of a much larger landscape of nutrition education, food access, and market-building programs operated by Farm Fresh RI. RI Farm to School enriches the connection communities have to fresh, local food and empowers youth to think critically about the food they eat, to learn about nearby farms and how food is produced, and to taste for themselves that nutritious, fresh foods can be super delicious.


Escobar Farm in Portsmouth Named 2017 Outstanding Dairy Farm

Rhode Island Department of Environmental ManagementThe Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) today announced Escobar Farm in Portsmouth has been named Rhode Island’s 2017 Outstanding Dairy Farm by the Rhode Island Green Pastures Committee of which DEM is a member.

“As one of Rhode Island’s finest dairy farms, Escobar Farm is most deserving of this recognition,” said Ken Ayars, DEM Chief of Agriculture. “Our state has a rich agricultural heritage, and increasingly, local food and agriculture are hotbeds for innovation and growth – spurred on by a growing demand by consumers to know their farmers and benefit from quality, local products. Dairy farming, however, has experienced a decline in recent years in Rhode Island – as elsewhere nationally. This awards program shines an important light on the value of dairy farming to our state. Kudos to Escobar Farm and the Green Pastures Committee for their commitment to the viability of this important local industry.”

DEM continues to work across many fronts to strengthen Rhode Island’s green economy and to promote local agriculture. The state’s green industries account for more than 15,000 jobs and contribute $2.5 billion to the economy each year. And local agriculture continues to be an area ripe for growth – with the number of farms in Rhode Island on the rise and a growing young farmer network. Escobar Farm, owned by Louie and Jane Escobar, was selected for this year’s award given the owners’ involvement in dairy farming advocacy and growth, community ties, and commitment to farming best practices. Escobar Farm was started by Louie Escobar’s father in 1937. Louie helped with farm chores as a youngster and continued working the farm until he took over in 1972.

Escobar Farm is a member of the Rhode Island Dairy Farms Cooperative and the Agri-Mark Cooperative. Milk from its 95 cows is used in Rhody Fresh Milk and Cabot dairy products. Along with the dairy farm, the Escobars also operate an artificial insemination company that serves dairy farms in the East Bay area of Rhode Island as well as Southeastern Massachusetts. The Escobars were featured, along with several other dairy farms from New England, in the documentary film The Forgotten Farms. The film explores the roll and challenges of the commercial dairy farm in the day of farmers’ markets and artisan cheese.
The Escobars are known as farmers who often open their farm to visits from local schools and people from the local communities that surround their farm. In addition to the dairy farm, the Escobars operate a corn maze that helps supplement the dairy income and introduces about 15,000 visitors a year to the farm.

The Outstanding Dairy Farm of the Year award is sponsored by the New England Green Pastures Committee, made up of government and industry members. Membership in Rhode Island’s Green Pastures Committee is coordinated by the Rhode Island Agricultural Council and the DEM Division of Agriculture. Winning dairy farmers from each New England state will be honored on September 15 at the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, Massachusetts.

October 23, 2017 0 comment
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News Bites: Blackbird Farm Farmers Market 2017 / Local Agriculture & Seafood Act Grants 2017 Awarded

by David Dadekian May 22, 2017
written by David Dadekian

Current news releases—Eat Drink RI is not the source for these items—please follow any links for more information.

Brand New Farmers Market at Blackbird Farm in Smithfield, RI beginning Friday, May 26th

Blackbird Farm

Blackbird Farm, one of the most-acclaimed beef and pork farms in New England, will host a brand new local farmers market at their farm stand on Friday evenings from 4-7pm, beginning on May 26th at 660 Douglas Pike, Smithfield, RI 02917. The farmers market will take place every Friday evening (weather permitting) through October 27th.

Farmers markets are for people from all walks of life and all ages who share a common belief that farmers and local producers are a vital part of our community. This market will support the local food economy, showcase a wide variety of products and tap into a region of the state that currently doesn’t offer an extensive outdoor market. The Blackbird Farm Farmers Market will support local farmers and producers, improve access to fresh fruits, vegetables and other farm products, encourage sustainability, and educate the community on the importance of local foods.

Vendors will include Blackbird Farm, Aquidneck Honey, Harris Farm, Hickory Hill Farm, Open Season, Providence Kettle Corn, Rachyl’s Goat Milk Soap, The Farm in Rhode Island and We Be Jammin’ & Blooming Buddies. A variety of products will be offered, such as: beef and pork, seasonal produce, bouquets, charcuterie, eggs, jams, jellies, edible flowers, herbs, plants, prepared foods, packaged seasonings, natural body products, beverages, and more.


DEM Partners Announce Over $200,000 in Grants to Local Food Businesses

Rhode Island Food Policy CouncilThe Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM), along with its partners, today awarded over $200,000 to 21 local food businesses as part of its annual Agriculture “Ag” Day celebration at the State House. The awards, funded under the Local Agriculture & Seafood Act (LASA) grant program, help new and existing small businesses and food initiatives prosper in Rhode Island.

“LASA continues to be an important catalyst in growing our food and agricultural businesses in Rhode Island,” said DEM Director Janet Coit. “It’s fitting to celebrate these awards and the initiatives they help fund during the annual Ag Day celebration, which shines a bright light on our state’s vibrant food scene and rich agricultural and fishing heritage. Kudos to all grant recipients! I look forward to celebrating the success of these initiatives.”

Now in its fourth year, LASA has provided over $900,000 – through grants up to $20,000 – to support growth of Rhode Island’s local food economy. The state’s food scene is often cited as an area of economic strength ripe for innovation and growth. Already, the local food industry supports 60,000 jobs, and the state’s green industries account for more than 15,000 jobs and contribute $2.5 billion to the economy annually.

“I’m always very excited to see the new crop of LASA grantees each year,” said David Dadekian, chair of the Rhode Island Food Policy Council. “The progress and success of these businesses, with the help of a program like LASA, is proof positive of the economic growth in the food and drink cluster here in Rhode Island and the Council is always proud to support that growth.”

The 2017 LASA grant awards include:

Backyard Food Company, $6,890: Expand greenhouse production space
Brandon Family Farm, $5,229: Support creation of pawpaw fruit orchard
Charlie’s Sugarhouse, $3,000: Expand parking area for education programs
Commercial Fisheries Research Foundation, $18,255: Develop an educational series for restaurateurs on local seafood products
Hocus Pocus Farm, $6,578: Improve soil conservation by transitioning to a no-till method of farming
Hurricane Hill Farm Collaborative, $19,836: Provide incubator farm space & to support infrastructure
Jerusalem Shellfish Co., LLC, $10,000: Restore a walk-in cooler & ice maker
Little River Farm, $3,500: Support expansion of caterpillar hoop house tunnels to help extend the farming season
Little State Flower Company, $8,949: Help develop historic farm site & expand flower growing business
Moonrose Farm, $6,362: Purchase a mobile walk-in cooler
Mooresfield Oyster Farm, $15,072: Enhance food safety measures
Northern RI Conservation District, $19,613: Help expand farming opportunities at Snake Den Farm
Ocean State Oyster Hatchery, $9,000: Purchase & install a commercial generator
Pat’s Pastured, $12,500: Improve chicken coops for greater efficiency & humane raising of birds
Point Judith Kelp Company, $6,000: Support wild seaweed harvest & development of new products
Rhode Island Shellfisherman’s Association, $1,931: Repair & upgrade upweller
Sanctuary Teas & Herbs, $12,160: Help launch this new business venture with refugee farmers
Walrus and Carpenter Oysters LLC, $12,000: Support expansion of sugar kelp hatchery
Westbay Community Action, $4,510: Develop cold storage & a new farm stand
West Elmwood Housing Development Corporation/Sankofa Initiative, $17,015: Support purchase of cold storage for produce grown at Sankofa community farm
Wild Harmony Farm, $11,600: Purchase an egg-washing machine & expand capacity

In partnership with the Rhode Island Food Policy Council, LASA is funded by the state with generous support from the van Beuren Charitable Foundation, the Henry P. Kendall Foundation, and the Rhode Island Foundation. In addition to the above grant awards, $20,000 is directed to DEM and the Rhode Island Seafood Marketing Collaborative to support the state’s local seafood campaign, RI Seafood. Local seafood is poised to spur the next wave of food-based economic growth. Last year, more than 100 million pounds of seafood arrived to a local port, with an export value over $1 billion.

As part of Ag Day festivities, local farmers, food businesses, and community groups are set up around the State House Rotunda from 11:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. today and offer free food samples and information about their work. For more information on DEM programs and initiatives, visit www.dem.ri.gov. Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RhodeIslandDEM or on Twitter (@RhodeIslandDEM) for timely updates.

May 22, 2017 0 comment
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Rhode Island Food Policy Council Call for Nominations of Council Members

by David Dadekian September 12, 2016
written by David Dadekian

Rhode Island Food Policy CouncilThe Rhode Island Food Policy Council seeks candidates interested in food systems change to serve as members of the Council.

To nominate yourself or another candidate for the RIFPC, please go to: https://rifoodcouncil.wufoo.com/forms/w1vcfy3o1xye6k8/

We welcome nominations of candidates who work in any part of the food system (production & harvesting, processing, distribution, consumption, resource recovery) who can also successfully look beyond their own areas of expertise and work collectively with partners across the food system toward the goal of greater community food security in RI.

While all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply, we are especially interested in candidates with expertise in any of the following areas: 1) Agriculture, 2) Fisheries, 3) General food systems design, 4) Food entrepreneurship

The responsibilities of Council members are to:

  1. Create new and innovative ideas and plans for the Rhode Island food system;
  2. Monitor and promote the Rhode Island food system across multiple sectors (production, distribution, access, public health, and resource recycling).
  3. Help to maintain the direction, purposes and goals, functions, and responsibilities of the RIFPC through mandatory participation in RIFPC Committees and/or RIFPC Work Groups;
  4. Attend all RIFPC Organizational Meetings (mandatory, 6x year) and RIFPC events (voluntary, as schedule permits)

Additionally, please note the RIFPC will be playing a key support role in development of RI’s first State Food Plan in 2016-2017, so candidates interested in strategic plan development and implementation are also encouraged to apply.

New Council members will be elected at the Council meeting in November 2016 and confirmed in time for the annual meeting in December 2016. Council members are appointed for a two-year term and may renew membership for an additional term, choosing to extend this second term for one or two years. The membership selection process strives to achieve racial, socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic diversity.

Completed Nomination Forms must be received by October 1, 2016

The Rhode Island Food Policy Council (RIFPC) was established in 2011. The RIFPC’s work is coordinated by a statewide collaboration of diverse, committed and engaged stakeholders from all sectors of the food system. The purpose of the RIFPC is to create partnerships, develop policies, and advocate for improvements to the local food system that increase and expand its capacity, viability and sustainability.

September 12, 2016 0 comment
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RI DEM News Release: Governor, Moffit, DEM Announce Grant Awards to Local Food Businesses During Rhode Island’s 15th Annual “Ag” Day

by David Dadekian May 11, 2016
written by David Dadekian

Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management

As part of her continued efforts to grow Rhode Island’s green economy, Governor Raimondo joined First Gentleman Andy Moffit, the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) and other partners today to mark the 15th anniversary of Agriculture “Ag” Day in Rhode Island; as part of the event, over $200,000 was awarded to 16 local farmers and food businesses as part of the Local Agriculture & Seafood Act (LASA) grant program.

“Rhode Islanders take great pride in their agricultural heritage and thriving local food scene,” said Governor Gina Raimondo.  “It is part of our identity as a state, and increasingly, local food and agriculture are hotbeds for innovation and entrepreneurship.  Small business is the backbone of our economy in Rhode Island, and I am proud of this investment in our green industries and the many new businesses and working families supported by them.  I applaud all partners involved in growing our green economy; this is a great example of how Rhode Islanders are working together to make our state stronger.”

Now in its third year, the LASA grant program provides grants up to $20,000 to help strengthen Rhode Island’s green economy and assist local farmers and fishermen in growing their businesses. Rhode Island’s food system supports 60,000 jobs, and the state’s green industries account for more than 15,000 jobs and contribute $2.5 billion to the economy; there are 1,243 farms in Rhode Island, an increase of 44 percent from 2002, and nearly 70,000 acres of farmland.

“Local Rhode Island food is among the best in the world” said First Gentleman Andy Moffit.  “By working together to foster innovation and growth, we will not only strengthen our economy but also address the public health and food security issues that plague many communities. Our focus remains on ensuring all Rhode Islanders have access to healthy, locally sourced food. Thank you to the many partners involved in helping make this vision a reality.”

“There is a tremendous energy in local food and agriculture, spurred on by an increasing awareness of the many benefits of locally grown products,” said DEM Director Coit.  “LASA continues to be an important catalyst in growing our food-based businesses in Rhode Island, and we are thrilled to join our many partners in announcing the 2016 round of grants.  We are equally thrilled to be celebrating our 15th Annual Ag Day in Rhode Island and inviting the public to learn more about local agriculture and experience the delicious foods and flavors our state has to offer.  What an exciting day and a wonderful way to showcase this vibrant industry in our state!”

This year’s LASA grant recipients include:

Southside Community Land Trust, $19,462:
Improvements to Urban Edge Farm

RI Land Trust Council, $19,757:
Improved farmland access, transfer

Sun Farm Oysters, LLC, $9,754:
Expand access to ice for BI aquaculture farms

Albert Brandon, $2,874:
Extend the season, profitability of local strawberries

Patrick McNiff/Pat’s Pastured, $15,000:
Increase poultry processing capacity

Zephyr Farm, $14,500:
Purchase, retrofit trailer to process fruits, vegetables

Nathaniel Wood, Jenna Yu, Adam Graffunder, $7,405:
Upgrade infrastructure for seed starting, crop storage

Christian Durfee, $10,000:
Defray operational costs for oyster hatchery

Erika Lamb, $19,706:
Support “SecondsFirst” food production

RWU, $19,204:
Conduct local sugar kelp research

Jon and Aden Restivo, $2,811:
Install additional beehives at Legend’s Creek Farm

Young Farmer Network, $19,938:
Expand current programming, coalition

Pickin Rock Produce/Silas Peckham-Paul, $16,091:
Purchase equipment, conduct research

Mapleville Farm, $8,300:
Expand aquaponics greenhouse, support outreach

Anna Jane Kocon, $15,349:
Expand harvest production of flower products

Sol Chariots Pedicab Cooperative, $9,847:
Expand delivery, compost pick-up service

In partnership with the Rhode Island Food Policy Council, LASA is funded by the state with generous support from the van Beuren Charitable Foundation, the Henry P. Kendall Foundation, and the Rhode Island Foundation. In addition to the above grant awards, $20,000 is directed to DEM and the Rhode Island Seafood Marketing Collaborative to support the state’s local seafood campaign, RI Seafood.  Local seafood is poised to spur the next wave of food-based economic growth; last year, nearly 100 million pounds of seafood arrived to a local port – with an ex-vessel value over $75 million.

As part of Ag Day festivities, local farmers, food businesses, and community groups are set up around the State House Rotunda from 11:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. today and offer free food samples and information about their work.

For more information on DEM programs and initiatives, visit www.dem.ri.gov. Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RhodeIslandDEM or on Twitter (@RhodeIslandDEM) for timely updates.

May 11, 2016 0 comment
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