The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) has announced the first annual RI Grown Week, set to take place from October 4 to 11. The event aims to highlight local farms, food producers, and markets throughout the state with a series of tastings, workshops, seasonal specials, and other activities.
Governor Dan McKee stated, “It was my pleasure to sign the first RI Grown Week Proclamation, recognizing the value of Rhode Island’s local food and agriculture. I encourage all Rhode Islanders to join me in celebrating the farmers and food businesses that nourish our state.”
DEM Director Terry Gray added, “RI Grown Week is a statewide celebration of our state’s vibrant agriculture and thriving local food economy. By supporting local farmers and choosing RI Grown products, we’re not only investing in our communities, but we’re also building a more resilient and sustainable food system and economy for Rhode Island.”
Events during RI Grown Week will include regular farmers markets at Fishermen’s Memorial State Park on Sunday, October 5 and Goddard Memorial State Park on Friday, October 10. Participating locations such as Barden Family Orchard in Glocester, Butterfly Farm in Lincoln, Folk Rock Farm in Scituate, Lovewell Farms in Hope Valley, Saunderstown Garlic Farm in Saunderstown, Westbay Farm in Warwick, Wishing Stone Farm in Little Compton, Narragansett Creamery in Providence, African Alliance of RI in Providence, Northern Rhode Island Conservation District in Johnston, Sankofa initiative in Providence, Pawtuxet Village Farmers Market in Cranston, My Tail’s Wagging in Richmond, and Bruce Newbury Food Dude Radio in Newport will feature locally grown menu items and special deals. A complete list of events can be found at www.dem.ri.gov/ri-grown-week.
Throughout the week-long celebration DEM will spotlight farms and businesses producing a range of local products including flowers, vegetables, fruit, shellfish and meat. DEM encourages additional farms and retailers to participate by showcasing their products through sign-up forms available online.
Residents are encouraged to follow RI Grown on social media platforms like Facebook or Instagram or subscribe to its newsletter for updates about locally produced foods from area farmers and fishers.
More information about DEM programs is available at www.dem.ri.gov.
