Hello [firstname],

A few days ago, I visited 11 farms and heard from our farmers about the challenges and uncertainties they’re facing. I’m inspired by their hard work, grit, and perseverance during a time of great adversity.

Central and Western Massachusetts is home to the best local food in the United States. But I’ll be blunt: our farmers are facing serious hardship. Many told me they’re struggling to make a living amid a crushing affordability crisis, Trump’s nonsensical tariffs, cuts to nutrition assistance programs, and labor shortages spurred by backwards immigration laws. Under Trump, the message to our small family farms is clear: get big, or get out. Not on my watch—I went back to Washington last week fired up to fight for our small family farmers.

I hope you'll enjoy this digital Farm Tour journal (and some produce tips). There’s never been a better time to buy local!

I kicked off day 1 of my 15th annual Farm Tour at Crabapple Farm in Chesterfield!

Sales from nutrition assistance programs like HIP and SNAP make small local farms like these viable—benefits that are essential to not just those in need, but to the entire community. Tevis and Rachel bring their fresh produce to the Northampton farmers market on Tuesdays!

My next stop was in Ashfield at Foxtrot Farm! This woman-owned farm grows fresh botanical herbs, elderberries, and garlic.

While touring, I spoke with Abby about the importance of investing in sustainable farming. She also shared how Trump’s cuts to farmer-led climate initiatives are hurting her livelihood. These disastrous cuts aren’t just bad for the environment—they’re bad for farmers too.

Then I stopped by Hager's Farm Market in Shelburne Falls. They have a great farm market—delicious maple soft serve! This 5th generation family farm is working hard to ensure that folks in our community have access to affordable and healthy food. But that mission is getting harder—kids are going hungry because of cruel cuts to food assistance, and farmers like Kim are struggling to make a living while also paying their employees a fair wage.

Big Ag and Trump’s tariffs are squeezing small farms that are fighting to survive. Local family farms like Warner Farm, run by 10th generation farmers, are the life blood of our community, and they deserve a fair shot to compete against corporate giants. Dave and Mike opened up their famous corn maze on September 5th. Thanks again for having us!

Washington could learn a thing or two from the partnership between Big River Chestnuts and Meadow Fed Lamb, where one farmer’s livestock grazes on the other’s land. It’s a win-win that results in healthier crops, healthier animals, and a healthier environment. Great to see our small family farms working together to keep folks fed!

I heard all day from local farmers about the challenges and uncertainties they’re facing. For young family farms like Bardwell Farm, the loss of business because of Trump’s cruel cuts to nutrition programs has been particularly difficult. To ensure America’s food security for generations to come, we must step up our investment in young farmers. Harrison and the folks at Bardwell sell fantastic fresh produce that supports the next generation of farmers!

I kicked off day 2 with a powerful reminder that immigrants help make America great. World Farmers in Sutton provides land to more than 100 immigrant and refugee farmers who are keeping folks fed and sharing their culture through food. Our community wouldn’t be the same without them!

My next stop was Harvey's Farm & Garden Center in Westborough! This 6th generation family farm is investing in the future of agriculture—solar panels on their land help run their farm more efficiently, while also providing an additional source of income during the winter months. It was great to meet Emily and her daughter Ada, who loved helping lead the tour. She’s following in her mom's footsteps!

I stopped for lunch at Ten West Market at Lilac Hedge Farm in Rutland! This farm is committed to sustainable farming and produces ethically raised, high-quality local meats. I’m also thrilled that Ryan is building a nation-wide community of farmers—he’s supporting family farms across the country by selling their products at his Farm Bar & Kitchen. It’s one of my favorite gathering places!

I love meeting young entrepreneurial farmers like Dennis, who runs the fam himself and provides a ton of local produce to our community. I love supporting family farms like Stones Throw!

Berberian's Farm in Northborough was the final stop on my 15th annual Farm Tour. For 100 years, this local farm has kept our community fed with fresh, healthy produce. But Ellen tells me that’s getting harder, thanks to big corporations. Grocery giants’ message to our local farmers? If you don’t do business with us, we’ll put you out of business. I urge everyone to support all our local farmers. It’s good for our economy, and their farm-to-table produce is delicious!

Sincerely,

James P. McGovern

Member of Congress