Challenging Montanans to eat local for two weeks

Northern Plains Resource Council presents the second annual Montana Local Food Challenge.

During all of August participants statewide will try to eat something local every day, plus participate in weekly challenges related to eating local.
Eating local brings myriad benefits:

• Providing fresher, more nutritious, and better tasting foods;
• Building communities and local economies;
• Supporting family farms and ranches;
• Protecting genetic diversity and regional food security.

“Montana has such a rich agricultural history, so it has never quite made sense that a major portion of our produce, grains, and meat leaves the state to be processed. The Local Food Challenge gives people an opportunity to play a role in supporting our local family farms and ranches, building community, and bolstering our economy,” said Jean Lemire Dahlman, a Northern Plains spokesperson and a family farm/ranch partner in Rosebud County.
“Last year was successful in bringing together Montanans from across the state to increase their local eating, and recognizing the businesses that are making local food a priority. They know it makes for fresh, delicious meals and healthy families. We are also beginning to see more young producers return to agriculture with a vision for markets independent of the current corporate system. We see the value of this homegrown food at our own kitchen tables and kids’ schools,” said Dahlman.

All are invited to participate! Go to MTlocalfoodchallenge.org to take the challenge and start working toward a better Montana today.

The website provides helpful resources such as where to eat and grocery shop locally, where to source local ingredients, and why it all matters.