Once seen as a marker of urban elitism, Minnesota now leads the way in the rise of the locavore movement. The term, taken in part from the Michael Pollan book "The Ominvore's Dillema", refers to those who strive to purchase all, or as much as possible, of their food from a local source. Local sources include farmers markets, community-share agriculture ventures, or direct from local farms. "The local food movement that we see nationwide, it's really strong in Minnesota," said Terry Nennich, a University of Minnesota extension professor specializing in farmer's markets.
In just five years the number of farmers markets statewide has nearly tripled to about 130, with nearly half of those in the twin-cities metro area alone. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the twin cities ranks alongside Chicago, Atlanta, and Madison, Wis as one of the nation's hot spots in the burgeoning local food movement. Further evidence of the boom was found at this year's Minnesota Fruit and Vegetable Grower's where 80 percent of the nearly 300 growers attending said they now sell direct to consumers. Twenty years ago nearly all growers sold to wholesalers and stores.
Why the Locavore Boom in Minnesota Now?
The boom is attributed to the convergence of two principle forces: the weakening economy and growing concerns over the health and safety of traditional food suppliers. "People want fresh produce and people want to know where it is coming from," said Eden Prairie raspberry and tomato grower Terry Picha. "The vendors are the growers and the consumers get to meet the person who is growing their food."
The rise in the locavore movement means good business for an often-struggling industry. "By selling directly to the consumer, farmers can make 50 percent more on their produce," Nennich said. This is also good news for Minnesota's immigrants, particularly the Hmong who are credited with providing an ever-growing share of the labor. Hmong growers represent about 70 percent of sellers in suburban markets and more than half of all growers in Minneapolis and St. Paul markets.
Making Do In Cold Weather
True to their reputation, these farmers are also investing in ways to extend Minnesota's finicky growing season. About 400 growers in Minnesota are trying a new solar-heated "high tunnel" to try to open the season five weeks earlier in the spring and keep in growing five weeks later in the fall, according to Nennich. This could mean ripe cucumbers in May and tomatoes in June, a possibility all but unheard of in the state.
So far there are no signs that this increase is a passing trend. Nennich expects to see continued market growth as more and more farmers find both profit and satisfaction in direct-source agriculture. In the meantime, Minnesotans can continue to enjoy an every blossoming array of fresh, organic, healthful choices right outside their doors.
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