Between the recap of our successful annual Agriculture and Food Conference, this month's Spotlight, and some great information on upcoming events, the Vine is full to the brim with great information, so I'll keep these remarks brief. I will say that we've finally made it: we are finally turning the corner to spring, and hopefully the warm weather will follow soon. We've all had enough of the winter, and whether or not you are a farmer, grower, or just love fresh, local food, it's ok to be more than a little excited about springtime. On behalf of the staff and board of directors, I can assure you that SEMAP shares that excitement!

CSAs are starting to fill up, nurseries and greenhouses across Southeastern Massachusetts are humming with activity, and everyone is preparing their favorite short sleeved shirt in anticipation for warmer weather. Just like the farmers and growers we support, we haven't been simply hibernating here at SEMAP. Kendra and I have been working hard to continue the programming and outreach we began last year. Coming off the heels of a very well-attended and enjoyable Ag and Food Conference, we are looking to build on our successes and are proud to be working with the Board to make a more robust and responsive SEMAP.

We need you to be successful. Whether it is a donation, participation at our events, spreading the word to others, or just continuing to "buy local" whenever possible...anything you can do to reaffirm our mission (to preserve and expand access to local food and sustainable farming in Southeastern Massachusetts through research and education) is an appreciated contribution to SEMAP. Thank you for your continued support, your patience as we have endeavored to rebuild and reaffirm the organization, and your dedication to local agriculture. As always, please let us know how we are doing. I can be reached at  jwentworth@semaponline.org  

-Jason

The Online Farm Guide  

Farmers: Keep your farmfresh.org listing up-to-date! The online farm guide, farmfresh.org, is a go-to for anyone looking for local foods, beverages and farm fun. Eaters: Visit www.farmfresh.org to find local food near you.   

The Beginning Farmers Network of MA has resources for beginning farmers, including an ever-expanding calendar of events statewide, helpful tips from guest bloggers, a jobs board, and a referral network. Get in touch or check out the BFN/MA site today to find the help you're looking for. See links to Young Farmer Nights (RI & MA super fun farm visits!) and New Entry's brand new publication, An Entrepreneur's Guide to Farming in Massachusetts.