What's Going On?

Crunch! Crackle! Snap! Slurp! Those are just a few of the sounds made by students eating locally grown produce in all Harford County Public Schools (HCPS) cafeterias. In an effort to promote locally grown fruits and vegetables in HCPS, the Second Annual Farm-to-School Week was held September 14 – 18, 2009.

Last school year, Food and Nutrition Services at HCPS purchased more than $500,000 in fresh produce. Working closely with local farmers, they were able to provide more than 10 ½ tons of fresh, local produce to the students. In August 2008, the county began working more closely with local farmers after legislators removed some of the regulation barriers that made it challenging to purchase locally. 

Last fall, HCPS was able to serve local apples, plums and watermelons– fruit that was delicious. Daren Zeller, assistant supervisor of Food and Nutrition Services and coordinator of incoming produce, said the flavor difference was noticeable. Green Ginger Gold, red Gala and crunchy Honey Crisp apples were just a few of the apples the students tasted.

In the spring, Food and Nutrition Services met with several local farmers including Wilson Mill Farms, Jones Family Produce, Shaw’s Orchards, Lohr’s Orchards and Wilson Farm to plan for the fall. Blossoms were left on a portion of apple trees in some orchards to produce smaller, student-friendly sized apples. Jones Family Produce set aside a specific field for cherry tomatoes just for the schools. In fact, some of the cafeteria staff in the Joppatowne area actually helped plant and grow the seedlings this summer. The farmers from the local farms have been great to work with, even configuring their plantings to meet the schools’ needs.

HCPS Superintendent of Schools Dr. Robert M. Tomback, along with County Executive David R. Craig, visited the cafeteria at Fountain Green Elementary School in recognition of the 2009 Farm-to-School Week. Dr. Tomback and Mr. Craig interacted with students as they enjoy a lunch filled with various local fruits and vegetables. In addition, HCPS Registered Dietitian Karen Olsen coordinated a large display in the cafeteria featuring different types of apples, herbs and many other locally grown produce. Students had the opportunity to touch and feel real fruits and vegetables, as well as learn about them.

It’s easy for HCPS staff to encourage students to try apples and other fresh fruit that were picked only a few days before service. Cherry tomatoes, regular tomatoes, green peppers and a large variety of apples are expected to be served throughout the school year. Watermelon, cantaloupe and honeydew are on the list, too.

The goal of Farm to School Week is to encourage students, school staff and their families to visit local farm stands and farmer’s markets to try new fruits and vegetables. This site can help you locate local products: www.harfordfarms.com.