Freshness: Locally-grown produce is usually harvested within 24 hours of purchase.

Taste: Produce picked and eaten at peak freshness tastes better.

Nutrition: Nutritional value declines with time so because local produce is fresh it is more nutritionally complete.

Purity: Organic produce contains no residue from pesticides & fungicides.

Regional Economic Health: Buying locally-grown food keeps money within the community contributing to the health of the local economy.

Variety: Local organic farmers are not limited to varieties that are bred for long-distance shipping and shelf life resulting in unusual and delightful offerings.

Soil Stewardship: Creating and sustaining soil fertility is the major objective for organic growers.

Energy Conservation: Organic production systems do not rely upon the input of petroleum-derived fertilizers and pesticides.  Buying locally also conserves energy at the distribution level.

Environmental Protection: Organic practices protect soil, air & water.

Cost: Conventional practices contain hidden costs such as correcting a polluted water  supply.  When these costs are taken  into consideration, organic produce is a good value.

A Step Toward Regional Food Self-Reliance: Regional food production systems provide jobs and self-employment opportunities and connect the producer to the consumer.

Passing on the Stewardship Ethic: You can raise the level of awareness among your family and friends by supporting and buying local organic food.