Why Supporting Local Agriculture Matters
Fresh food, strong communities, and a thriving local economy.
As summer hits its stride, July marks the peak of local produce season—and it’s the perfect time to celebrate everything that makes local agriculture so important. When you choose to buy food grown close to home, you’re doing much more than filling your basket with ripe tomatoes or crisp greens. You’re investing in a healthier, more sustainable future—for yourself and your community.
Fresher Food, Better Flavor
At Three Rivers Market, we prioritize sourcing produce from farms within a 100-mile radius. That means the fruits and vegetables on our shelves are often harvested within 24 hours of arriving at the store. The result? Fresher, tastier, and more nutritious food on your plate.
Plus, fewer miles traveled means reduced carbon emissions, lower fossil fuel use, and a smaller environmental footprint overall. Eating local doesn’t just taste better—it’s cleaner and greener.
A Boost to the Local Economy
Every dollar spent on local food goes further. It stays within our region, helping to build economic resilience and strengthen local businesses. When you support a local farm, you’re helping someone send their kids to school, pay workers a living wage, and keep a small business thriving.
These personal relationships between shoppers and growers also create a food system rooted in transparency and trust.
A More Connected Community
Buying local is about more than transactions—it’s about relationships. Choosing locally grown food fosters a deeper connection to where your food comes from and the people who grow it. It supports farmland preservation, encourages sustainable farming practices, and keeps our landscapes diverse, vibrant, and productive.
Whether you’re picking out berries for a summer tart or selecting greens for a family dinner, your choices help sustain a food system that is good for people and the planet.