I hear you were in Summerville recently to check out a new concept. Tell us about it, Commissioner.

I visited Carnes Crossroads in Summerville.

This new development features a small farm at its center.

Residents can participate in monthly shares of produce and local goods.

There will also be a monthly farmers market and farm tours.

They call it an Agrihood.

Similar concepts in South Carolina include:

Kiawah River Farm – Johns Island farmers partner with the development, which provides working land and a market for products.

Riverstead – Pickens County development built around a central community farm. Homeowners participate in the farming.

What this concept shows us is that people value agriculture and value having farmers as neighbors.

The challenge to all of us is how to leverage that respect for and interest in farming to inspire people to fight for our industry.