MACOMB, Ill. (NEWS3) – Local farmers are an influence in our everyday lives and farmers in our region were able to show off their products at third annual Farm 2 Fork.
From seed to plant, to growth and harvest, and finally from farm to fork. Western Illinois University’s Farm 2 Fork showcased the importance of farmers in our communities. Organizers said each year the event get bigger and bigger. This year’s Farm 2 Fork took place on Thursday in the University Union.
Brian Davies is behind the Macomb Food Co-Op, a place where local farmers can bring their products for income.
“Most of the food you’ll get at the Farm 2 Fork event is produced by producers that are associated with the Macomb Food Co-Op,” Davies said.
One of those local farmers is Joel Gruver. He contributed to this year’s event with his bacon popcorn.
“At the Food Co-Op right now we have this popcorn in a bulk bin,” Gruver said. Farmers are doing more than growing crops. Obviously they’re helping to feed us.”
“We think shopping local is beneficial for a number of reasons,” Davies said. “It supports the local economy, local producers and we reduce the amount of fuel needed to transport food.”
Davies said supporting local farmers by buying their product at the Macomb Food Co-Op is important to the community.
“We want to emphasize the importance of local food,” Davies said. “It’s fresher, more nutritious and you’re supporting the local economy.”
If you would like to visit the Macomb Food Co-Op, it’s open Tuesday through Friday from 12 p.m. until 6 p.m. and on Saturday afternoon from 12 p.m. until 3 p.m. The food co-op is located at the intersection of south McArthur and Washington Streets.
