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posted by Patricia Hohl

Do you look for the Fair Trade label on products?  Well, Fair Trade USA, the movement’s leading advocate in the United States, has angered critics by saying it will cut its ties at year’s end with the main international fair trade group and make far-reaching changes in the sorts of products that get its seal of approval.According to the New York Times, “The changes include giving the fair trade designation to coffee from large plantations, which were previously barred in favor of small farms. The group is also proposing to place its seal on products with as little as 10 percent fair trade ingredients, compared with a minimum of 20 percent required in other countries”  Read the entire story at: A Question of Fairness

posted by Patricia Hohl

At Thoreau Farm, farming is part of our heritage.  The agricultural history of our region runs deep.  In Concord, we are fortunate to have several farms we can support by “eating locally.”  Though their work is often made difficult by policies enacted by our government.  Buying local vegetables is not only good for our health it’s good for the environment and the local economy.  Yet, some of the biggest obstacles to the success of local farms are policies set forth in the Farm Bill, up for review in 2012. Continue reading →