Contacts:
Jason Gibbs, Office of the Governor, (802) 828-3333
Kelly Loftus, Agency of Agriculture, (802) 828-3829

Wednesday, June 27, 2007

Montpelier, Vt. -- Governor Jim Douglas is urging Vermonters to take advantage of Vermont’s many locally grown and produced agricultural products over the summer months.

Governor Douglas said he hopes that as Vermonters prepare for Independence Day gatherings, and other summer events, they will look for and buy locally grown and produced agricultural products.

To further encourage Vermonters to buy local, Douglas released a public service announcement that he hopes radio stations will air throughout the season.

“If Vermonters shifted just 10 percent of their food spending to buying local we could add $100 million to the Vermont economy,” the Governor said. “The best way for each of us to participate is to look for and buy locally grown agricultural products at stores, farmer's markets, farm stands, and restaurants.”

Local agriculture is a big part of what makes Vermont such a wonderful place, Douglas added.

“Our farmers and growers provide the food we eat, and they serve as stewards of our beautiful working landscape. By doing our part to support local farms we can help protect this treasured resource,” he said. “As we shop, we just have to remember to buy local, it’s just that simple.”

For more information Vermonters can visit: www.vermontagriculture.com.