In a time of increasing climate concerns, local farmers are emerging as frontline defenders against environmental degradation. According to recent agricultural studies, locally grown food can reduce carbon emissions by up to 60% compared to conventional farming and distribution methods. The COVID-19 pandemic has delivered an unprecedented blow to these climate heroes, with an estimated 85% of small farms reporting significant revenue losses due to restaurant closures, farmers market restrictions, and changing consumer behaviors. Despite these challenges, organizations like 21 Acres continue advocating for local food systems as an effective climate action strategy.
“Farmers who use regenerative practices are sequestering carbon in the soil, using chemical-free growing practices, and minimizing the use of heavy equipment, thereby limiting emissions and greenhouse gases,” explains 21 Acres, an organization dedicated to sustainable food systems education. Their work highlights how the compounded benefit of locally-produced food—which doesn’t require long-distance transportation—creates an environmentally responsible food chain that directly addresses climate change impacts while supporting local economies. As we observe National Farm Workers Day, these connections between sustainable agriculture and climate resilience become increasingly important.
The pandemic has revealed both vulnerabilities and opportunities within our local food systems. When restaurants and food service programs closed, small growers, meat producers, dairies, and creameries lost essential revenue streams they had relied upon. Temporary farmers’ market closures disconnected producers from their customers, while widespread layoffs reduced purchasing power among loyal supporters of local agriculture. Perhaps most concerning, farmworkers—now classified as essential but historically underresourced—continue facing health challenges without adequate safety nets or affordable healthcare options.
Amid these difficulties, a positive trend has emerged. “Many people are seeking out local farm products for the first time and wanting fresh food with a more direct supply chain between farm and market,” notes 21 Acres. This growing awareness presents an opportunity to rebuild local food systems with greater resilience and sustainability. By connecting consumers directly with producers, communities can strengthen food security while supporting agricultural practices that actively combat climate change through carbon sequestration, reduced chemical usage, and minimized transportation emissions.
For consumers wanting to support local agriculture, multiple pathways exist. Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs represent one of the most impactful options, providing farmers with crucial upfront capital to plan and execute growing seasons. These subscription-based models create mutually beneficial relationships where consumers receive regular deliveries of fresh, seasonal produce while farmers gain financial stability. Additionally, farmers markets—which have implemented safety protocols during the pandemic—offer direct-to-consumer sales opportunities that eliminate middlemen and maximize farmer profits. Farm stands, and special bulk orders further diversify revenue streams for producers.
Beyond direct purchasing, resources exist to support farmers through challenging times. Organizations like the Good Farmer Fund and Farmer Relief Fund provide emergency assistance to struggling producers. The Hmong Association of Washington offers culturally specific support to immigrant farmers facing unique barriers. For farmers themselves, resources include Washington State’s Coronavirus Response programs, guidance from the Washington State Department of Agriculture, networking through the Washington Young Farmers Coalition, and legal assistance from the Farmers Legal Action Group. Educational institutions like Washington State University provide knowledge resources, while Community to Community focuses specifically on farmworker support and advocacy.
Success stories demonstrate the resilience fostered by community support. After losing 90% of its restaurant business overnight, Skagit Valley’s Boldly Grown Farm pivoted to expanded CSA offerings and doubled its subscriber base within weeks. Similarly, Carnation Farms transformed their educational programming into virtual formats while developing new distribution channels for their products. “The addition of being local means that food doesn’t have to be trucked long distances to reach consumers,” explains a 21-acre representative. “Taking into account all of these reasons, farmers provide important solutions to addressing climate change.”
The movement to support local agriculture extends beyond immediate crisis response. By rebuilding regional food systems with sustainability at their core, communities create lasting climate benefits. Customers requesting locally sourced products at grocery stores help expand market opportunities for small producers. Flower growers, often overlooked in food system discussions, provide essential pollinator habitats that support broader agricultural productivity. As one farmer recently noted at the Woodinville Farmers Market, “Every dollar spent with local farms is an investment in your community’s future and the planet’s health. We’re growing more than food—we’re growing hope.”
