Author Archives: Erica Houskeeper

UVM Students Find Local Food Hub Inspiration in Vermont

Posted by Erica Houskeeper  |  January 22, 2015

The temperature was 12 below when a busload of UVM students arrived at a nondescript business park off Route 100 in Waitsfield. From the outside, the green, industrial building didn’t look like a thriving food enterprise. But on the inside … Continue reading →

Posted in Economic, UVM, Vermont | 1 Comment

What Does Sustainable Agriculture Mean to You?

Posted by Erica Houskeeper  |  December 12, 2014

Laurie Reese uprooted her life in the Pacific Northwest to learn how to become a farmer. The 54-year-old grandmother resigned from her office manager job and drove cross-country with her 76-year-old father last spring to join UVM’s Farmer Training program.

Posted in Economic, Environmental, Social, UVM | Leave a comment

Getting a Taste of Hop Farming in Vermont

Posted by Erica Houskeeper  |  November 18, 2014

Vermont is better known for its beer than its hops. With more than 30 breweries in Vermont, including The Alchemist, Hill Farmstead, and Lawson’s Finest Liquids, Vermont has the highest number of craft breweries per capita in the United States. … Continue reading →

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Why Food Hubs Need Skilled Employees for Long-Term Viability

Posted by Erica Houskeeper  |  October 16, 2014

Food hubs are gaining traction in the local food movement. But as with any viable enterprise, operating a food hub requires a diverse set of skills to succeed. Sixty-two percent of food hubs have been in existence for five years … Continue reading →

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One Season at UVM Turned this Scientist into a Farmer

Posted by Erica Houskeeper  |  October 6, 2014

Julia Cosgrove thought she would become a research scientist after college. But her career plans changed after joining the UVM Farmer Training Program.

Posted in UVM | 2 Comments