WHOLE LIVING

THE ALABAMA SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE NETWORK IS GROWING A GROUP OF LIKEMINDED PEOPLE AND PLANTING SEEDS FOR A BRIGHTER TOMORROW.

BY MELISSA TATE WITT

FARMING FOR THE FUTURE

The Alabama Sustainable Agriculture Network (ASAN) is a network of farmers, consumers and agriculture-related organizations committed to a resilient agriculture system in Alabama. Through various events and educational forums, ASAN lives out its mission to deepen the relationships among the people of Alabama, the food we eat and the places we live.

A little less than 20 years ago, those in Alabama interested in sustainable agriculture were isolated and frustrated with their inability to effect change and learn about sustainable practices and experiences from others. So in 2001, a steering committee was formed, consisting of individuals from different backgrounds and organizations, from small farmers using sustainable practices to professionals who worked, taught and marketed in the sustainable agriculture arena. The Alabama Sustainable Agriculture Network was born and ready to craft a resilient agriculture system in our state.

So what makes an agricultural system resilient? Strong relationships. Cultivating meaningful connections between growers, eaters, institutions and businesses make our agricultural system thrive. With this in mind, ASAN stresses that farming should be:

Farmer centered. Growers must be able to sustain themselves economically and socially.

Ecologically regenerative. Our agriculture should replenish the soil, protect the watershed and enhance the ecosystem.

Just. A system based on the exploitation and impoverishment of farmers and farm-workers will ultimately fail. All labor within the food system, especially the labor of women and immigrants, must be justly compensated.

Intergenerational. Our elders and ancestors have agricultural knowledge that should be maintained and celebrated. The system should be worthy of our children and youth, who should be engaged and invited to participate in growing, harvesting and consuming healthy foods.

GET CONNECTED Interested in learning more or becoming part of the Alabama Sustainable Agriculture Network? Follow ASAN on facebook and instagram. You can read up on the membership information for individuals, families/farms and businesses/corporations. It is the place to receive the most up-to-date information about the sustainable food movement and other initiatives closely connected to it. @ASANONLINE ASANONLINE.ORG.

KNOW THY FARMER:

ASAN events held throughout the year support training farmers, educating consumers and policymakers, and strengthening the bonds that hold the local food system together. ASAN members—including more than 800 farms, ranches, non-profit organizations and government agencies—believe these opportunities not only benefit farmers and communities but the state’s environment and health as well.

ASAN’s signature event is the annual FOOD & FARM FORUM,

happening December 7-8 at Camp McDowell. This weekend-long forum combines peer-to-peer education, experiential learning and community building.

GRAZE: BIRMINGHAM

Another signature event is the annual Graze: Birmingham. Last year’s event brought 30 Alabama farmers and chefs together to serve a farm-to-fork picnic. “Graze is about celebrating good food and drink and the talented folks who produce it,” said Alice Evans, ASAN’s Executive Director.

SAVE THE DATE Graze: Birmingham September 9, 2018 Watch for details on asanonline.org.