Our first two workshops of the Sustainable Living Series were a great success! During our workshops Mecklenburg County citizens learned about the basics of starting a home garden and home composting methods. This month we continue our series with the launch of our Summer Sustainable Living Series calendar. Classes include beekeeping, raising backyard chickens and canning. 

Next class: Beekeeping 101 with Pat Willinger of the Mecklenburg Beekeepers Association

Attendees will learn:

•  4 tbsp olive oil
• 4 tbsp white balsamic wine vinegar
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• Fresh ground pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp orange juice
• 3 tbsp pineapple juice
• 1/4 tsp poppy seeds
• 1 pt strawberries
• 2 grilled pork chops
• 9 oz of baby spinach
• 1/2 cup pecans

Our food system is ever-changing. From an increase in local food production to growing interest in the ingredients of processed food, it is easy for consumers to get lost in the sea of information. Reports indicate that consumers were notified of 2,623 recalls in 2012,or 6.5 recalls daily. 

In efforts to address the growing demand and need for food safety information, the North Carolina Department of Agriculture recently launched a new toll free line to assist NC residents in receiving information about food safety concerns. In addition, the department also offers a email option and comprehensive website for consumers. Save the following resources for future reference for your family. 

Here's where we are so far in Mecklenburg County:

435 participating Individuals and 30 Businesses, Non-Profits and Civic Groups have spent $165, 052 on local food and saved $10,503 by growing their own food. 

Great job Mecklenburg!