Desert Roots Farm

I figure I will tell you a little bit about the organic produce co-op that I joined that sparked this adventure.  It is Desert Roots Farm in Queen Creek, Arizona, just southeast of Phoenix.

Before we moved to Phoenix, I had been introduced to the idea of joining an organic produce co-op by a neighbor of mine back in New Mexico, unfortunately we were already well into the "moving" process, and I could only enjoy some of her "share" vicariously.  Every now and then she would bring produce over that her family couldn't eat and we enjoyed it tremendously.

Once we moved to Phoenix I kept the idea at the back of my mind, but being that we lived in the middle of the desert, I simply wasn't sure if it were a possibility.  Through my brother-in-law's girlfriend, I discovered Desert Roots Farm.  This was exactly what I was looking for.

I have several reasons for wanting to join a local organic agricultural endeavor such as Desert Roots Farm.

• The food is organic and pesticide free.
• It is locally grown so I am supporting local business people.
• The produce is picked the day it is delivered to me, so it is as fresh as possible.
• Food that is picked at the peak of ripeness tastes best.
• Its nutritional value is also at its peak.
• There is greater variety in the produce because a farm is not limited by what they can grow based on how well it will ship long distances.
• I believe in soil conservation, and an organic farm will build up their soil rather than deplete it as many commercial endeavors do.
• Buying locally also decreases energy costs because the food is delivered locally.
• Buying locally provides much needed jobs for people in my community.

I'll be sharing a whole lot more about Desert Roots Farm in my blog.  My only relationship with them is I am a customer and a friend of one of its workers.  This is not an advertisement, but a testimonial about how every one of us can look more carefully at our food buying choices and see if we can make choices that will make a difference in our communities.

If you live in the Phoenix area, check out their website and learn more about their philosophies and see if you might want to participate in "eating locally".

If you live outside the Phoenix area, check out the website anyway to get ideas for your own community.

Kate