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Number of new farms growing in Florida helping economy

Bay News 9 – October 11, 2011

BRADENTON — During these tough economic times, a number of people are turning to farming.

The number of small farms in Florida is growing. Top state officials say that’s a good thing for the economy.

On Tuesday, Florida Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam visited Manatee County.

One of his stops was at Geraldson Community Farm in Bradenton.

This is a county owned farm, on public land, where community members can buy shares of the farm, and get local, certified organic produce weekly.

Putnam said there’s recently been a huge amount of interest in small farms like Geraldson’s. He said he hopes others will take notice and jump onboard to support it and other farms in the state.

“People are more concerned about where food comes from,” said Putnam. “This is an interesting example of both community supported agriculture, where people are buying shares in the farm, and getting fresh produce. It’s incubating new talent and spinning that off into new businesses.”

At Geraldson’s, they’re helping the local community eat healthier and learn to become more independent.

“Anyone from community can get involved,” said William Harris, the Farm Manager at Geraldson Community Farm. “We’ve got people as far as St. Petersburg and Tampa for memberships.”

Harris said the community is not only welcome to get their produce from them, but they can volunteer and help farm on the land as well.

Putnam said agriculture is a very important part of Florida’s economy.

He said small local farms help prevent the United States from becoming dependent on other countries, like we are with fuel.

Putnam and other supporters said when you buy direct from local farmers, your dollars stay within your community, and strengthens the local economy.

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