I met Kate Stillman several years ago at my farmer’s market. Once I learned about her work, I became a customer. In 2013 I invited her to speak to my students in a Sustainability and Food course, and she came back several times since.
I am still a satisfied customer who understands her work better (with all the pluses and minuses). It is often said that we vote with our wallets. I am a believer in this. As a result I chose to support Kate and her farm, and local farming as an industry.
Kate grew up in the business of farming – helping on her parents vegetable and her grandparents dairy farms. She learned early to embrace her farming roots and hone her skills as an entrepreneur, caretaker, manager, vet, sales person – even undertaker – she has managed to leave no stone unturned.
Kate attended the University of Massachusetts. Today she farms her two properties with her sons (although they have a little ways to go before they approach helpful!).
Kate is an industry leader, who has successfully brought Stillman’s at the Turkey Farm to Stillman Quality Meats – developing an extensive CSA network and a vibrant farmers market system.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
What are Kate’s roots and journey as a farmer
How to understand the cost of local food, why are you paying more and why it is worth it
What are CSA’s (community supported agriculture), memberships, and other farming models
How do regulations and laws guide this industry
How should meat eaters respect the animals, and take responsibility for eating meat
CONTACTING OUR GUEST:
Website for Stillman’s Quality Meats, Facebook and Instagram