4 Reasons to Purchase Local Produce Grown Using Sustainable Practices In Texas

Some of us are true health nuts, but most of us just like to eat healthy. (I fall in the second camp.)  I’ve seen a lot of produce in my time, but I have vivid memories of a particularly delicious tomato grown right here at the Farm at Millican Reserve. It was bursting with flavor, juicy and sweet, a world away from the pale, mealy ones you often find at the grocery store. You really haven’t lived unless you’ve eaten a tomato that was harvested straight from the farm. The flavor is stronger, the color is brighter, and the nutrition is full strength.

Since I started at Millican Reserve, it’s been easy to incorporate more local produce into my diet. It’s not just about the taste (although that’s a huge motivator), but also about the many benefits that come with eating local. Here’s why I’m hooked on local produce and why you should be too.

Fresher Flavors, Happier You

Locally grown produce is picked at peak ripeness, meaning it travels a shorter distance from farm to table. This translates to a significant difference in flavor and quality. Local fruits and vegetables haven’t spent days or weeks bouncing around in trucks, allowing them to retain their natural sugars, vitamins, and minerals. The result? Food that tastes the way it’s supposed to — fresh, vibrant, and bursting with flavor.

Supporting Your Community

When you buy locally, you’re directly supporting the farmers like Farmer Kenny at Millican Reserve who work tirelessly to bring fresh, healthy food to your table. Your purchases help them sustain their farms, invest in sustainable practices, and continue providing our communities with delicious, nutritious produce. It’s a win-win situation.

Environmental Impact: Eat Like a Local

Food transportation contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. By choosing local produce, you’re reducing your carbon footprint. Locally grown food travels a shorter distance, meaning fewer trucks on the road and less fuel burned. Furthermore, many local farms prioritize sustainable practices like crop rotation and natural pest control, which benefit the environment as a whole.

Seasonal Delights: Embracing the Cycle of Nature

Local farms offer a unique opportunity to experience the true bounty of each season. For example, in my area, spring brings tender asparagus, lettuce, and spinach. Summer offers vibrant tomatoes, refreshing peppers, and cucumbers. Fall is all about hearty squash, broccoli, and carrots. Buying local allows you to savor the best of what each season has to offer.

The Farm-to-Table Experience

I really encourage you to find and support your local farm. There are so many reasons to do it, but mostly … it’s delicious! If you’re in College Station, be sure to check out the Farm at Millican Reserve. Farmer Kenny is passionate about creating a thriving farm-to-table community. This community supported agriculture (CSA) farm utilizes sustainable practices to grow a variety of seasonal produce year round.

At Millican Reserve, we’re all about building healthy community around nature. If you live here, or if you’re a member of the Conservancy, you have a direct connection to your food. Participate in our farm tours and workshops to learn about sustainable farming practices, and gain a deeper appreciation for the journey from seed to table. It’s worth it to eat local.