Sustainable Food and Farming in the Connecticut River Valley: A
Vision
VIII . CISA VISION
"CISA is committed to developing a thriving local food and
farming system."
We envision a Valley food and farming system that is economically,
environmentally and socially sustainable. Such a food and farming
system:
- Fosters economic viability for all farmers engaged in the
commercial production of agricultural products;
- Nurtures and sustains a heatlhy natural resource base;
- Is supported by a strong, vital community informed about
sustainable food and farming issues;
- Values and promotes healthy food and a healthy environment;
- Offers and supports opportunities for farming and
agriculture-related enterprises;
- Respects and supports farmers and farmworkers and assures food
security.
CISA MISSION STATEMENT
CISA is committed to developing a thriving local food and farming
system, one that is economically, environmentally and socially
sustainable. Its goals are to:
- Promote and encourage the consumption of locally produced
products
- Maintain and increase the Valley's agricultural land base and
ensure its availability to future farmers
- Encourage and instill sustainable and appropriate agricultural
technologies that are resourceefficient and protect the environment
- Secure adequate financing assistance and support for Valley
farmers and agricultural entrepreneurs · Help design and foster land
uses that promote and support the Valley's agricultural system
- Provide safe and equitable employment for farm workers
- Ensure adequate technical and support services for Valley
agricultural producers. CISA will work to further this mission
through a community-based, problem-solving process that:
- Builds leadership capacity among community members
- Values collaboration among diverse community interests
- Strives to balance planning, action and reflection
- Encourages (promotes) institutional change
