Editor,

Spring is here and the growing season is upon us. It’s time to evaluate how you spend your food budget.

I urge everyone to purchase locally-grown/raised food. We have many farmers’ markets and roadside stands to choose from. If you’re unable to connect with one of these sources, then insist your favorite supermarket carry locally-grown produce and other products.

Whidbey farmers are your neighbors. Their children go to the same schools as your children or grandkids. They attend your churches and volunteer in many local organizations.

According to the Agriculture Census of 2022, there are 377 farms in Island County, covering over 17,000 acres. Of these farms, 96% are family-owned.

Eating locally grown food helps protect open space. If you enjoy the scenic vistas and like living in a semi-rural area, then supporting family farms makes sense.

Eating locally grown or raised food allows you to know the farmers and ranchers. Encourage them to follow best practices in order to protect wetlands and other important habitats. Now envision trying to do that with the faceless, multinational ag businesses that control much of our food supply.

I admit this isn’t as “sexy” a topic as hot button issues such as Navy jet noise or the local government scandal du jour. A case can be made, however, that where you spend your food dollars is more impactful to our islands than any other decision you’ll make.

My thanks to the Whidbey Island Conservation District for supplying the USDA census statistics.

Steve Ellis

Coupeville