Update on the Southwest Wisconsin Local Farm and Food Economy

by | May 4, 2009 | Uncategorized

From the Valley Stewardship Network:

A presentation by Ken Meter, Economist & President of the Crossroads Resource Center

Thursday, May 21st from 6:30-8:30 pm
Vernon Memorial Hospital
(new medical office building)
Community Conference Rooms A & B

Ken is the creator of “Finding Food in Farm Country” studies. He examines food systems and creates reports using hard economic data to demonstrate the importance of developing local, sustainable food systems. His reports have been adopted in 38 regions in 18 states. These reports have transformed the discussion of farm and food economics, and launched a national discussion on local foods as economic development. Ken has made over 150 presentations nationally on local food systems. He has conducted state-wide analyses in Minnesota, Iowa, California and Hawaii to document economic losses suffered in America’s farm communities. He paints a picture of local food systems that can inspire people to take action to improve their own economies. Read more about Ken’s work at www.crcworks.org/econ.html

The Southwest Wisconsin Local Farm & Food Economy Report was funded by the Valley Stewardship Network’s Food and Farm Initiative in a cooperative effort with Vernon Economic Development Association and the Crawford County UW Extension office.

We hope to see you all there!! There is no charge to attend but donations are encouraged. Local beverages and snacks will be served.

Sock maker steps up to solar hot water

by | May 1, 2009 | Uncategorized

From a solar hot water profile written by RENEW’s Michael Vickerman and Ed Blume for Focus on Energy:

“We wanted to do something genuine, not phony,” said Bob Chesebro, president of family-owned Wigwam Mills, Sheboygan, about his company’s decision to install a solar energy system.

Initially, Chesebro wasn’t sure which kind of solar energy system to go with. But the more he delved into the question, the more he came to believe that solar hot water would provide the best fit for the 103-year-old company.

Placed in service in February 2008, Wigwam’s 27 solar collectors supply 47 percent of the hot water used by the company to shrink, bleach, antimicrobial treat, wash and soften 40,000 pairs of socks each day. . . .