The opinions expressed in this piece do not necessarily reflect the views of The Mendocino Voice. We value the diverse opinions of our readers and we welcome robust, wide-ranging thoughts and ideas on subjects relevant to Mendocino County. Opinion pieces can be sent to info@mendovoice.com.
Mendocino County is the sort of place small farmers should be able to thrive. Beyond the idyllic climate and the varied coastal and inland influences which allow for a great diversity of ag, there is that most undeniable quality of this county: its strong-willed, independent streak, always willing to support local production of anything it can. Hell, Mendocino and farming go so well together that there are a chain of restaurants around Beverly Hills called Mendocino Farms. Which makes it all the more surprising that sales at farmers markets are down 10% countywide, with the flagship Ukiah market down 22% year-to-date from 2015. Mendocino’s small farm community had been in a tough spot well before this recent decline — and continuing down this path could affect our local farmers markets for years, and thus, our community’s health, independence, character, and well-being.
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