"USDA report shows creative marketing by small farmers
produced an extra $10 billion through Value-Added Agriculture. Data from
the 2007 study showed an 80% increase in 5 years. More recent studies
suggest the annual figure is now $18 - $20 billion
(Newswire.net – June 30, 2013) Camarillo, CA -- The USDA just
released a long-awaited nation-wide agricultural report. The report
includes data up to 2007 that shows the nation’s small farmers produced
an extra $10 billion through Value-Added Agriculture that year. The
report analyzed farm reports from the 2002 through 2007. Value-Added
Agriculture, or all farm-related activities other than crop or livestock
wholesale, showed an 80% increase in those 5 years.
Since that time, more people have become aware of the benefits of
fresh and local produce. Wide spread consumer concern about food safety,
pesticide residues and GMO crops from commercial agriculture have
accelerated that trend. A sampling of more recent USDA studies on individual areas suggests the annual ‘Value-Added’ figure is now $20-$30 billion.
Creative farmers are selling cooking classes, providing ‘days at the
farm’ where urban-dwellers can reconnect with their food or have the
chance to ‘pick your own’ produce. Nothing tastes any better than fresh
from the garden. Many farms give people their first glimpse of real farm animals.
Farm-fresh eggs are a treat not to be missed, nor are the jams and
jellies, fresh and dried fruit, juices, olives, vinegars and other farm
delights. "
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