Farm to Plate brings together organizations creating a stronger food economy.  ACORN has been part of the network collaborating among organizations and promoting businesses.  In 10 years, as a result of collective efforts, Vermonters will consume twice as much locally produced food as they do today, and farmers and other food enterprises will be taking advantage of even greater access to local, regional and national markets for the good, healthy food they produce.

ACORN's efforts have included sharing public and private resources. We host workshops for financing small businesses, match-making businesses to expand local food purchases, and  supporting student entrepreneurs. There is so much work still to be done and many Addison County community members will be attending the statewide networking meeting to help promote opportunities for business development. 

As part of the network we are promoting the new handbook from Salvation Farm. The goal is to provide information on the produce grown in the Vermont region. Contained within the Handbook is information on the nutritional value, storage, preparation and simple recipes for forty different fruits, vegetables and herbs all downloadable. 

Vermont is resplendent in autumnal radiance. It sounds corny- but it is so true. Corn fields are a patchwork of cut patterns, green hay fields frame the windrows of windbreaks, and farmstands are adorned with row after row brilliant orange pumpkins. The dinner plate easily mimic the colors and textures of the season.

Menus- either at home or at our area restaurants can be a rainbow of colors. The last of the season's sweet yellow corn is still being harvested at Sweet Hill Farm. Lester Farm's roasted Italia peppers tossed with grilled Misty Knoll Chicken make for a perfect dinner balancing flavor with color. If you are one to keep the grill going...be sure to dredge Brussels sprouts in oil and grill over medium high heat. The flavor is intense, sweet with an overlay of light char flavor. Truly wonderful! Fall salads are a wonderland of chilled roasted vegies, nuts, and freshly harvested salad greens. If you are in the mood for fantastic fall food, head over to the Jessica's at Swift House Inn in Middlebury.

When the chill creeps in and the oven is on- what is better than roasted potatoes and squash (take your pick of so many varieties!), tossed with oil, salt and pepper. By keeping it simple, the flavor of the vegetables is rich and true. Of course when the oven is on- be sure to cook up some apple crisp, pie or cobbler.

Jessica's Restaurant at Swift house Inn

 

In Vermont, we can purchase richly flavored unpasteurized cider made on the farm. These ciders tend to be small-batch representing the array of signature varieties. Our small local orchards such as Yate's in Monkton sell wonderful orchard produced cider from varieties you may be a little unfamiliar with. Stop by the next time you are on the ridge and enjoy!

Another fabulous source for fresh cider is Wind Fall Orchard. Available at the farm in October try the rich fresh seasonal delight! Pick your own is possible on Sundays throughout October. 

Thanks to you all for participating in the Pick for your Neighbor program. The Food Bank appreciates your support and is especially pleased when businesses send employees out for picking as part of their human resource programs.