New food co-op's initial meeting connects producers and consumers
By Contributor
The creation of a local food network is one step closer after the Kettle Valley Food Co-operative (KVFC) hosted its first members meeting. The successful gathering on Saturday, Apr. 17 saw over 50 of its new members – both producers and consumers – get together and explore plans for local food.
“This was a very exciting day for us. We have spent the last few months actively recruiting new members and this was the day when we all got a chance to see who we are and explore what we are to become,” said Christine Carlson, president of the KVFC.
Part of the meeting was to determine the pros and cons to a few ways the co-op could operate for its first year. “We have a few scenarios we want the membership to consider; a CSA-type model that would be more of a direct farmer to consumer link; a weekly box system; or a combination weekly box and a market day,” Carlson explained. “We heard lots of feed back on these suggestions and a committee was struck to explore solutions for this first season while keeping in mind the need for flexibility, choice and ways we can directly serve the West Boundary. The committee will get back to the membership with the suggested model at our next meeting.”
The next membership meeting will be in mid-May when this decision will be made.
A further series of workshops are planned by the KVFC to take place throughout April and May that will support this new co-op in its quest for success. The early stages of the co-op development, including these workshops are being supported by a fund from the Co-operative Development Initiative of the federal government.
Carlson encourages new memberships and involvement. “We are still inviting new members to this co-op. If you are interested in a local food network that connects local eaters with local producers in the Boundary – this co-op is for you.”
For more information contact the Kettle Valley Food Co-op through Sheila Dobie at 250-442-8583 or email boundaryfarms@gmail.com. And Check out the new website at www.kettlevalleyfoodcoop.org for more information about the KVFC and updates.
