The Town That Food Saved

Tom Stearns presented his community's story in Vernon, October 5th, 2009, with an introduction from Wendy Aasen from FASNO.

Hardwick, Vermont underwent tremendous economic development adjustment after its granite quarries closed and the town was faced with empty stores and high unemployment. Hardwick is a town that was “saved by food” as agricultural entrepreneurs are expanding aggressively, reaching out to investors and working together to create a collective strength to revitalize the town’s economy.

Over 100 jobs have been created through innovative local food enterprises and now these entrepreneurs are investing in a Center for an Agricultural Economy, a non-profit industrial center for agricultural businesses. The goal for the Center is to lead the way in generating a comprehensive food system that creates healthy communities and a revitalized economy.

Mr. Tom Stearns, President of High Mowing Organic Seeds and President of the Center for Agricultural Economy, will discuss the transformation of the community, the local food initiatives developed, and the value of the partnerships that were formed.

Sponsored by City of Vernon Economic Development and Food Action Society of the North Okanagan.