03/19/2007: "Feasibility Discussion Of Food Co-Op Continues"

Another meeting regarding the possibility of forming a Farmer's Co-op on San Juan Island took place on Wednesday March 14th at the Friday Harbor High School Commons, and was well attended by 17 people; including farmers, interested citizens, and the Agriculture Resource Center were represented as well as several San Juan Island Grange members. A healthy and animated discussion about suppliers, products, and ideas about marketing took place, all for the purpose of exploring the feasibility of a Farmer's Co-op on San Juan Island.

Concerns were expressed regarding percentage of mark-up, island produced and/or regionally produced farm products versus importation of outside produce, farmer apprenticeship programs, CSA's or buyers clubs. Problems surrounding the acquisition of workers during the planting, growing, and harvesting seasons were also discussed.

All were encouraged to weigh-in with thoughts on these subjects as well the possibility of opening up Land Bank property for farming. During a discussion about matching up farmers and fallow land belonging to older retired farmers who no longer wished to farm, it was mentioned that putting a notice on the ARC bulletin board might help match potential farmers to available land.

The Olympia Farmer's Market which has proven to be extremely successful, is located at the base of Capitol Way right by a marina. It is reported that the market is built on Port of Olympia property, and the expense of the building was shared by the Port, thus making the cost well within the realm of affordability. Port of Friday Harbor has undeveloped land, and their mission statement encourages promoting commerce, and this possibility has been also been discussed.

If the farmers of San Juan County find a reasonable venue to market wholesome, island grown produce and value added products at a profit for themselves, the future of farming in the county will be enhanced, and will be a positive step toward preserving the rural nature of the county. Although the SJI Grange kitchen was licensed by WSDA (Washington State Department of Agriculture) for preparing foods for retail sale, nobody to date has taken advantage of this. The license will soon lapse and will likely not be renewed unless the Grange renews it. Margaret Barton from WSDA will be on island March 19th and again on April 2nd. and may be contacted regarding renewal of the license.