Maryland Legislation to Bring Local Food to Schools

Image by lumierefl via FlickrMaryland Legislation to Bring Local Food to Schools
Legislation near becoming law in Maryland would help bring local foods to school cafeterias, according to an Associated Press story. Schools have been prevented from purchasing food grown by local farmers by bidding rules and limited by food preparation ability. The new legislation would establish "Maryland Homegrown" week in cafeterias: a small introduction to local foods. It also encourages farm field trips to teach students about local food, and connects schools purchasers with Department of Agriculture marketers. Meanwhile, schools aren't the only place in Maryland where local foods are drawing attention. The Baltimore Sun reported recently on growing farmers' market, CSA, and restaurant demand for locally grown dairy products, meats, and produce. These growing markets are helping farmers connect with an appreciative audience for their products.

Discover Oklahoma: Web site, map link agriculture, tourism

If you're planning a trip to an Oklahoma winery or want to spend a weekend at a quiet guest ranch, two new resources can help you find the perfect destination. to create a new agritourism Web site and map that make it easy to plan memorable day trips or weeklong vacations. The Web site, http://agritourism.travelok. com, and large tri-fold map list hundreds of agritourism attractions across the state by city, region and type of attraction.

Agritourism blends two of the state's largest industries: agriculture and tourism. It often happens when farmers and ranchers diversify their business and invite the public onto their property to buy goods or experience a slice of the country life. Agritourism includes farm and ranch experiences, wineries, farmers markets, hunting destinations, food festivals, western events, birding tours and more. Also known as "agritainment,” some of these attractions cater to people who want to reconnect with their roots or show their children how their grandparents grew up.

Widely recognized as the fastest growing sector of travel and recreation, agritourism is gaining worldwide popularity, and Oklahoma, with its cultural diversity, Western heritage and interesting terrain, is positioned to become a leader in farm and ranch travel experiences. If you haven't had an agritourism experience, here are a few to consider. Call before visiting, because many agritourism attractions are seasonal.