Dear Rebecca,

I am very sorry to share that this is my last introduction to The Buzz. I’m passing the torch to my very capable colleagues, Jared and Matt, as I leave CFSA.

After six years, I want you to know that I have loved working with and on behalf of the local, organic farmers of the Carolinas and their many supporters. It’s been an honor. You all have worked with me over the years to understand the farm bill, explore the implications of a changing legal and research landscape around industrial hemp, and move legislation to make farm-to-school a viable option for farmers, school nutrition staff, and our kids. We’ve taken up work to explore the policy options for farmers to play a key role in mitigating climate change, and so much more. I’m excited to see what you will do to press our policy leaders to support the type of farming the builds up soils, preserves our water and air, and feeds our neighbors healthy food in the future.

CFSA will look for a new policy director soon. Keep your eyes peeled for the job announcement and encourage those who you think would be interested—and qualified to manage a stellar team of local, state, and federal policy staff—to apply.

Lastly, I want to leave you with some excitement. Check out our Lead Locally intensive at the Sustainable Agriculture Conference below.We’re bringing back this incredibly popular leadership intensive to teach you how to become a community leader that can make the food and farming changes you want to see. We’re amazed to see previous graduates taking on important roles throughout the food system in the Carolinas and beyond! If you serve on a local board, commission, or committee, there’s room for you, too! Read below about being a guest panelist at the Lead Locally intensive. If selected, we’ll give you a free day pass to the conference.

As always, check out our monthly recommended reads and video to stay abreast of local happenings.

Missing you already,

Rochelle

Rochelle Sparko, CFSA Policy Director

PS – Did you see that prices are going up soon? If you are thinking about joining us for the conference, now’s the time to register and save!

In addition to the local leadership intensive, our policy team is leading many conference workshops! Policy wonks and farming advocates are an important seat to fill at the sustainable agriculture table. We hope you’ll join us to share ideas and build a resilient community around policy that supports local food in November.

Summer Special prices end on Friday, Sept. 27.