Reap + Sow at the Charleston Wine + Food Festival
The old proverb “You reap what you sow” is used often in everyday conversations; eventually, you have to face up to the consequences of your actions. The local food movement has recently shed light on some of the consequences humanity faces as a result of actions—how the food supply is managed.
At the Charleston Wine + Food Festival this past March, Edible Charleston supported an event appropriately named “Reap + Sow,” which took place at Clemson’s Coastal Research and Education Center. Guests unearthed the plans of planting in the future and grew an understanding of each seed’s story of strife and gave perspective and explanation of the science of seeds. Guests visited the official seed saving vault and took a tractor ride through the organic crop fields. The morning ended with a bountiful tasting of a locally sourced and sustainable lunch prepared by Harvest Catering.
The farmer-scientists work to develop sustainable, efficient and economical ways to enhance production, in quality and quantity, ensuring there will always be enough local produce to keep up with the growing population. They utilize innovative production and postharvest methods, discovering what works and what doesn’t so they can then share this with other growers—making the industry stronger.
Why does this matter? Every issue, Edible Charleston highlights the stories of farmers and ranchers who are bringing fresh, local sustainable foods to the community. We spotlight chefs and bakers and even mixologists who use local ingredients to create magnificent, delicious and nutritious dishes. Reap + Sow gave a look into the foundation of this entire local movement. It illustrated how the locavore movement isn’t just a trend, but a scientific process, ensuring the community continues to grow and responsibly sustain the food culture.
