Earlier this year, Oregon’s proposed farm stand rule changes drew statewide attention, raising questions about how farms can balance agritourism, land preservation, and community needs. These rules weren’t about shutting farms down, they were about clarifying how permits work so the system is fair and functional for everyone. At stake is nothing less than how we keep small farms thriving in Oregon’s unique land use system.
Read MoreAt Slow Food Portland, we believe food is more than fuel—it’s culture, connection, and care. And yet, in a system built for speed and profit, food too often becomes disposable. Each year, nearly 40% of the food produced in the U.S. goes uneaten. This waste isn’t just about what ends up in the trash—it's a mirror reflecting the values we've lost: respect for labor, gratitude for the land, and equity in access.
Food Waste Prevention Week (April 7–13) is a moment to pause and ask: How did we get here, and what kind of food system are we upholding when good food goes to waste while neighbors go hungry? Preventing food waste is more than a matter of scraps—it’s a matter of justice. And it starts by honoring the harvest.
Read MoreAttending the Organic Seed Growers Conference opened my eyes to the deeper stories behind the food we grow and eat. Representing Slow Food Portland, I connected with seed savers, farmers, and activists from around the world who reminded me that seeds are more than just the start of a plant—they're vessels of culture, memory, and resistance. This blog shares some reflections from a weekend that left me inspired and hopeful for the future of our food system.
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