Farm to School Week will promote N.J. agriculture

 

Monday, October 11, 2010
Special to the Sunbeam
tsnews@sjnewsco.com

 

TRENTON - Legislation co-sponsored by Deputy Assembly Speaker John Burzichelli would declare the last week of September as "Jersey Fresh Farm to School Week" to promote the importance of supporting New Jersey's agricultural business and the value of healthy eating for children. 

"Our state is bursting with locally grown produce, from blueberries, cranberries, peaches, to tomatoes, New Jersey grows it," said Burzichelli, D-3rd Dist.

"Teaching children about the importance of Jersey Fresh produce can help them understand what farming is about and that fresh vegetables are good for them and their health." 

The legislation calls on the New Jersey Department of Agriculture to design a bidding guide that allows for school purchases of locally-grown food and would establish a website to provide information for farmers, distributors, and schools to create purchasing networks. 

"Getting our state's economy back on track is paramount," said Senate President Stephen M. Sweeney, D-3rd Dist. "Passing legislation that will enhance and promote New Jersey's agricultural industry is a win-win for everyone." 

Burzichelli added, "The New Jersey Department of Agriculture has worked tirelessly to promote the Jersey Fresh brand. This measure will provide an additional boost to the Department's efforts." 

"This measure will not only raise nutritional awareness, but should prove to be a boon to our state's farmers," acknowledged Assemblywoman Celeste M. Riley, also D-3rd Dist. "Added bonuses in helping farmers stay viable also helps maintain open space by preserving New Jersey's motto as the Garden State." 

The Third District Legislators encourage constituents to make a visit to a local produce farm or vendor to experience the taste of "Jersey Fresh." For more information on pick your own farms, community farmers markets, orchards, and local produce stands, please visit the following link at: http://www.state.nj.us/jerseyfresh/searches/roadside.htm.