And some inspiration!

 

 

 

What is a produce exchange? How is it different from a 'yard share'?

A produce exchange is an informal gathering of people who are already growing extra food in their yards. Some groups invite non growers to participate but that is up to each group. A yard share is an arrangement to share the work and share the harvest. You can set up either on hyperlocavore but in this post we are focusing on a produce exchange.

Let's say you have a lovely large lemon tree which produces more lemons than you could ever squeeze. And let's say Joseph down the way has a fig tree, and the Lees around the block have a giant rosemary bush, and your friend Marguerite has yet again planted way too many tomato plants. You start to get the image. There is a cornucopia of tastiness within a quarter mile. It's time to start a produce exchange or perhaps a food donation system for a shelter in your neighborhood.

To see and example of an existing local produce exchange on hyperlocavore take a look at the Lamorinda Produce Exchange Many thanks to Amy Greacen who organized it.

How do I get a produce exchange going in my neighborhood?

1. Create a group on hyperlocavore.com. Be sure to name it in a way that is easy and clear, as in "James Street Produce Exchange."

• go to pods/groups from the top (tab) menu on hyperlocavore.com
• towards the right of the screen hit + Add a Group
• enter the details of your group and hit Save at the lower part of the screen.
• when you save the group there will be an opportunity to invite people to that group on the following screen. Use this feature if you have the emails of friends who may be interested.

2. If you don't have emails then create a flyer for your neighborhood, cafes, houses of worship to find interested gardeners. Many folks are just overwhelmed by all the extra they have and would love an opportunity to move it. On the flyer be sure to list the groups page on hyperlocavore so people can find you online easily.

Content example for your produce exchange flier:

Your groups rules.

The details of how your group works, when it meets and who can participate is up to you. Use your group page for hashing these issues out or meet in person and post your decisions. You are able to have a 'members only' discussion on the site.

Is there a limit to the number of people?
Must everyone bring something every time?
Can people bring prepared foods such as jams, baked foods, cheeses, pestos or chutneys.
Will you have a monthly BBQ or potluck to make it a real community?
Is exchange of money for things allowed?

Other ways to work together:

• create a group tool lending library
• create a seed exchange
• create a community compost pile
• do a group run to the nursery or hardware store
• have a yard building party to help a newbie grower install raised beds
• go on a scavenged materials hunt
• start a bulk buying club to reduce costs
• start a group meat buying club - free range cow? not so expensive when you share the cost.
• have a neighborhood 'jam session' - some people make jellies and jam - and maybe other folks bring their guitars!

How you work together, how creative you get in supporting each other is up to you!

Are there legal considerations?

Be sure to let the rest of the people on hyperlocavore.com know how your produce exchange is working by posting to your profile or in the discussion forums!

TIP: I am more likely to feature a group that has a GREAT group picture so change yours from the default right away. Please be sure you have the right to post an image. Featured groups land on the front page!