A Place With Purpose…The 30th Year!

   

 

 

Eating is an agricultural act.
∞ Wendell Berry:  American farmer, essayist, poet

           

On Slowing Down…

Driving on almost any rural road in the Ag Reserve, reminds us of the purpose of this place:  fields are greening, hedgerows bustling, cyclists, hikers and motorists exploring…It is important to note that we need to take care on  these special rural roadways.  Imagine, for a moment, trying to move your unwieldy farm equipment down these winding roads.    The wild things, too, beg your patience: turtles, fox, deer, toads, wild turkey… They can be best spotted when you take it a little slower. So plan on spending some time when you travel here… And give a farmer, a cyclist and that magnificent ancient box turtle a break. 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

This 30th anniversary of the Reserve has brought renewed interest in our open spaces, natural resources and vital farmland.  MCA has been working to educate both the public and elected officials on the benefits of and need for  preserving, supporting and promoting the Reserve and local, sustainable food production.  Our efforts to provide support to new and existing small sustainable farms has been fruitful and we press forward with plans for a small farm incubator and mobile processing for meat and poultry (USDA pilot project). 

Challenges remain and will intensify as development interests seek land and, finding little in growth centers, push to radiate ever outward. Virginia transportation officials continue to plan for a bridge and highway that would bisect the heart of the Reserve.  Your voice and support, as always, are greatly appreciated.  MCA membership is a great way to get connected and make a difference.  Please join today!

 Read more…  

 

Every minute of every day, America loses two acres of farmland.  Help us save the land that sustains us in Montgomery and Frederick Counties.