FARMINGTON – “Mabel’s Book: Farmington Area Local Food,” a free booklet listing 62 local sources for fresh healthy breads, cheeses, eggs, fruits and berries, meats, milk, vegetables and seedlings produced on farms in the region, is available at numerous locations throughout the greater Farmington area.

Updated and published by a grassroots network of Eat Smart Eat Local enthusiasts from Franklin County and surrounding towns, the directory lists farms and farm stores offering fresh food, farm tours, pick-your-own berries and value-added products.

“Local agriculture is important for a host of reasons, including its role in the rural economy, our region’s heritage and most significantly its ability to supply fresh produce. And farming preserves the fielded landscapes that define our rural environment,” said Tanya Swain, executive director of the Western Mountains Alliance. “By purchasing local produce, we support our farms and our health. Mabel’s Book’ makes this a lot easier to do.”

Booklets can be picked up every Friday at the Sandy River Farmer’s Market on Front Street or anytime at Front and Pleasant Street Gourmet. The booklet is also available at the Franklin Soil and Water Conservation District and area libraries and businesses throughout the Franklin County area. Those interested may call Western Mountains Alliance at 778-7528 for a copy.

“Mabel’s Book: Farmington Area Local Food” is dedicated to Mabel Dennison, who put together the first Farmington area local food directory in 2000 by driving around the county and stopping to talk to local farmers.

This year the effort was coordinated by the Western Mountains Alliance with partners, Fairbanks School Neighborhood Association, Farmer’s Market Associations, Western Maine Community Action, Healthy Communities Coalition, UMaine Cooperative Extension, area farmers and University of Maine at Farmington practicum student, Vicki Lowe.

“The local food booklet does a great service to area citizens and businesses by connecting farmers with the people who want fresh, locally produced products. The result is stronger farms and a more connected community. Win-win!,” said David Fuller of the University of Maine Cooperative Extension.

The project is part of the alliance’s Eat Smart Eat Local initiative to build a vital local foods economy in western Maine. To learn more about it, visit www.westernmountainsalliance.org.