Umpqua Foodways

So what are "foodways"?

Here's a definition from Wikipedia: In social science foodways are the cultural, social and economic practices relating to the production and consumption of food.

In Douglas County we have the weather and the land to support a rich variety of foodways. And the region has a long history of agriculture and ranching. The most recent and obvious development is the boom in wine grape production.

"Think local" and you'll find an abundance of good food and drink in our region and state:

“In New Food Culture, a Young Generation of Farmers Emerges” features a Corvallis, Oregon farm. New York Times, March 5, 2011.

Here are two local farms that could have been in this article:

Big Lick Farm is a family farm and CSA committed to providing high quality, naturally grown food.

OMyGato Farm is also a local CSA farm.

If anyone is on top of the local food movement, it has to be Jennifer Coalwell, who blogs regularly about local farms, foods, markets, and eateries. "Flavors of the Umpqua: Notes from a Local Kitchen" is an excellent resource. Includes recipes!

Think Local Umpqua supports and encourages all local businesses. Pick up one of the "Think Local Umpqua" directories on the new book shelf just inside the front door of the library. Their web site includes an event calendar that lists local farmers markets and the Think Local Umpqua Business Directory may be the most comprehensive guide to local food and farms. Be sure to choose "Business Type": Food/Farming/Wine and search "All".

Pick Your Own is a handy directory to several (but not all) you-pick farms in Douglas County. Complete with driving directions and produce details.

Great information about Emerald Hills Beef and Umpqua Valley Lamb comes from the Portland natural foods chain of New Seasons Markets. Locally, their beef and lamb are available at Kruse Farms.

Of course, Kruse Farms Market, Bakery, and Gift Shop offers all kinds of local produce and bakery treats, including bread from the Lighthouse Center Bakery, Cafe, and Country Store.

You can check out the growing list of wineries in "Oregon's Oldest Fine Wine Region" at the informative and comprehensive Umpqua Valley Wineries web site.


And finally, you can learn more about food, agriculture, eating, and cooking at your local library by picking up a book like Kitchen Literacy: How We lost Knowledge of Where Food Comes from and Why We Need to Get It Back by Ann Vileisis.