WVU Extension agribusiness specialist Dee Singh-Knights encourages West Virginians to shop local this holiday season — picking up fresh produce and value-added goods from nearby farms and markets to support community jobs and find one-of-a-kind gifts. (WVU Extension Photo)
An agribusiness expert from West Virginia University Extension says whether you’re planning a holiday meal or searching for a meaningful gift, you don’t have to look beyond your own community.
In fact, shopping at local farms and agribusinesses can connect you with distinctive, handcrafted products while keeping more dollars close to home, said Dee Singh-Knights, an agribusiness economics and management specialist with WVU Extension.
Singh-Knights is available to offer tips for finding local food and gifts across the state.
Quotes:
“Buying local food and farm products helps to create jobs and strengthen your community’s economy. Local farms and agribusinesses offer the opportunity to give a unique gift that shows pride in and support for your local community.
“While some local products may cost a bit more, it’s important to remember they are uniquely handcrafted. Local business owners do what they do because they are passionate about their products. This often contributes to better and more personal customer service that you likely won’t find at larger, big box stores.
“However, you can sometimes find that prices at local businesses are better because they don’t have the overhead that larger stores have. Help encourage these businesses to stay afloat by supporting them and encouraging your friends and family to do the same.
“Some farms may still have a good inventory of fresh products that you can use for your holiday meal because of high-tunnel production or favorable weather conditions. Others offer meat or value-added products that you can serve at your holiday dinners, such as maple syrup and other maple products, honey, jams and jellies or craft drinks.
“These value-added products also make wonderful gifts, while giving the gift of support to your community. Some farms also offer community-supported agriculture subscriptions, gift certificates or vouchers that can be used during next year’s growing season. Some farms even offer locally grown Christmas trees or holiday-themed experiences for the whole family.
“There are a few tools that can help you locate West Virginia farms and find out what products they offer. The West Virginia Department of Agriculture created the West Virginia Grown directory, and FarmFreshWV, an initiative of the West Virginia Food and Farm Coalition, that can help consumers discover farms, markets and other agriculture-related businesses.” — Dee Singh-Knights, associate professor and agribusiness economics and management specialist, WVU Extension
West Virginia University experts can provide commentary, insights and opinions on various news topics. Search for an expert by name, title, area of expertise, or college/school/department in the Experts Database at WVU Today.
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