I just watched this inspiring documentary... ok I know, that is what 90% of documentaries are designed to be- inspirational... but you guys, this one must have been formulated by wizards because it was magic.
The Greenhorns struggled at first to capture my attention; it felt like another food documentary saying all of the same things, going on and on about food in America (blah blah blah... TOTALLY KIDDING... I love that crap, which is why I was watching it in the first place). Yes, they talk about many of the typical food doc subjects- sustainability, ethics, resourcefulness etc, however, that was just the tip of this impactful iceberg.
Severine von Tscharner Fleming (a name befitting such a person) founded the greenhorn movement in 2007 to inspire and shape the next generation of farmers in America. Currently the average age of the american farmer is 57, which means an abundance of experience (and land) is about to be lost if it is not reclaimed by young, passionate individuals who long to grow and produce food for the masses (within local markets...mini masses). Severine saw a need and has worked to meet it ever since.
"The Greenhorns enable this critical meeting of minds, bodies, and land by helping young and aspiring farmers to navigate career paths, build skills, and connect with each other."
I am no farmer, seriously, it is better that way. Don't get me wrong, I think the idea is romantic and beautiful, but I kill things, also it isn't in my blood, that is to say, I feel it is best left to the professionals so that I may go and support their talents at my local farmers market. Then again, there are programs out there to teach young people how to farm (literally, farming 101 courses you can take) so maybe it is in my blood and I simply haven't tapped the right vein.
I recently told someone that I could never lead a rural life, it is a nice idea but I need to be connected to something much larger than myself in order to function... now, after seeing this documentary, the movement behind it, the community, the passion... I may be rethinking that answer (only a little bit). These people are a part of something so great they are never removed from their communities at large. I admire their Carhartt and soil swathed personas and salute their dedication and drive. I now get why my mom has chickens and my friends have urban garden spaces, and if I could, I genuinely think I would (try) to participate in some way. For the time being however, I am doing my research, getting involved where I can, and I am more thankful than ever that I have a place like Cookbook (a small, locally sourced market) at the end of my road.
What about you, where and how will you be shopping this season?
Just a little food for thought.
xx
