What is Local Food?
We define “local” as food that is grown, caught, raised, or made in Washington State. But, more importantly, we think ‘local’ should signify an area where you could feasibly “know your farmer.” We have an abundance of food available in our state, and “local” food is more than just measuring miles – it’s getting to know farmers, fisherman, and food producers that are part of our communities.
Eat Local First
Eat Local First is the trusted source for finding local farms and identifying the restaurants, markets, and food businesses that purchase from local food producers.
Sustainable Connections’ Food & Farming Program launched the Eat Local First campaign in 2011 to encourage people in Northwest Washington – residents and visitors alike – to choose local food first.
A statewide resource
In 2018 the campaign was adopted by food systems organizations on the Olympic Peninsula, and is now expanding to be utilized statewide to connect Washingtonians with local farmers, fishers, and food businesses.
Partners from around the state are working together to merge different online farm finder tools into one comprehensive, easy-to-use, online Washington Food & Farm Finder.
Eat Local First Collaborative
These partners make up the Eat Local First Collaborative: Pierce County Fresh, Sustainable Connections, The Local Food Trust, Tilth Alliance, Washington State University Food Systems Program and Washington State University Regional Small Farms Program serving Clallam, Jefferson and Kitsap, and with future participation from Island Grown, Genuine Skagit Valley, Gorge Grown Food Network, the Methow Conservancy, Walla Walla Grown and other regional partners. Is your region interested in joining us?
Contact us to learn more
