The 2019 Farm to Fork Picnic is this weekend! On June 2, will celebrate creative partnerships among Triangle farmers, chefs and culinary artisans, some of whom have been on board since the first Farm to Fork Picnic in 2007.
Pairings for the June 2 picnic, which has been dubbed “The Country’s Best All-You-Can-Eat Feast” by Bon Appetit, represent more than 60 farms and restaurants.
Proceeds from the weekend’s events will benefit beginning farmer training programs at the Center for Environmental Systems (CEFS).
“It is essential that we train and support a new generation of farmers to achieve success,” says Nancy Creamer, professor of sustainable agriculture and community-based food systems at NC State University and director of CEFS. “We’re excited to see a lot of young people who are interested in farming, as well as many second-career growers who want to make a difference in their community. Our mission is to provide strong mentorship and the tools to be sustainable.”
Farm to Fork NC is an initiative of the Center for Environmental Farming Systems (CEFS) and co-hosted by CEFS and the North Carolina Agricultural Foundation Inc. The Farm to Fork Picnic began in 2007 to recognize Carlo Petrini and the Slow Food Movement and quickly became one of the most anticipated culinary events in the region.
Farm to Fork NC events not only celebrate the Triangle’s thriving local food community, they also benefit sustainable agriculture internship and apprenticeship programs at CEFS, providing hands-on training and mentorship to young and second-career farmers.
“With the average age of U.S. farmers nearing 60, training the next generation of farmers is critical to the future of our fresh and local food supply,” said Dr. Nancy Creamer, CEFS Director.
About CEFS The Center for Environmental Farming Systems is a partnership of NC State University, N.C. A&T State University and the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. CEFS develops and promotes just and equitable food and farming systems that conserve natural resources, strengthen communities and provide economic opportunities in North Carolina and beyond. For more information, visit www.cefs.ncsu.edu.