The Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) and Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) are holding regional meetings for our HIP partners and retailers. In February, you received notification from DTA regarding the upcoming suspension of the Healthy Incentives Program. We know that the HIP suspension impacts retailers in a more nuanced manner and hope […]
CISA supporters and members, you are invited to our Annual Meeting at the Garden House at Look Park! Join with the CISA community to celebrate CISA's 25th anniversary, honor this year's Local Hero awardees, and participate in a vibrant discussion about our local food economy with CISA staff, board, and your community! Dinner will be […]
Join CISA and MA Farm to School for School Food 101 introduction! Come learn what makes K-12 school meal programs distinct from other food service programs, how to cater to school meal providers, and how to troubleshoot potential barriers. We’ll discuss some of the unique benefits and opportunities of partnering with schools. Representatives from schools […]
Join us at Glendale Ridge Vineyard for an early evening farm tour to learn about resources, ideas, and need-to-know information for engaging the public on your farm. We will discuss the many ways that farms can provide education, experiences, and products, and how to assess if an agri-tourism enterprise is the right direction for […]
This year, CISA celebrates 25 years of supporting Pioneer Valley farms and farmers, working to build a resilient, fair, and delicious local food system. There are over 200 Local Hero farms helping to feed our Valley – come by River Valley Coop on June 16th to meet some of them and taste their delicious products […]
Join us for an early evening farm tour and round table with our hosts, Russell Braen and Alane Hartley at Park Hill Orchard who practice the "Three T's" of agritourism - Tours, Talks and Tastings - in order to create meaningful participatory experiences for visitors. " There are several areas of tension in every agritourism […]
The community is invited to join the candidates for a series of open discussion focusing on our region’s food insecurity and its underlying causes. This is your opportunity to ask questions of the candidates and learn how they intend to ensure everyone has access to healthy food. 1st Franklin Candidates Forum Thursday, July 12, 2018 […]
Join owner Al Rose and the Red Apple Farm crew to talk about how they have evolved from a wholesale apple orchard four generations ago to a retail location that draws thousands of visitors each year for apples and an all-around agriculture experience. Their wide ranging selection of tours, PYO, live music, hay rides and […]