Community Seed Swap 

Join us for an afternoon in the bountiful Anneliese Willowbrook garden. Bring your extra seeds to share or trade! We will have a guest speakers talk about the best way to  save seeds, why it's important to eat locall and live sustainably. Guests will also learn about the SEEDS Library of Laguna Beach and the Bluebird Canyon Farms' Seed Bank. Light refreshements will be served. All ages welcome.

Guest Speakers:

Dr. Meg Hiesinger, School Programs | Grow Your Own!, The Ecology Center

Seed saving is far more than a quick and easy eco act. Seed saving is quickly becoming a necessity. In just one generation, we’ve lost much of our agricultural diversity due to a variety of factors, including corporate monoculture farms and the increased use of standardized hybrid seeds. Seeds have been saved and traded among neighbors for the past 10,000 years, creating spectacular global agricultural diversity. This talk highlights the importance of seed saving for preserving cultural heritage, preserving strains adapted to your growing conditions, and maintaining control of your food supply. Includes a hands-on demonstration of seed harvesting.http://www.theecologycenter.org

Linda Elbert, President, Slow Food Orange County 

Choosing local food benefits individuals, the community and the environment. Local food  typically means access to fresh, whole foods that are products of the natural world. The nutritional benefit of food is at its peak when fresh and free of added preservatives. Local food supports the environment by reducing fuel miles, promoting crop diversity, and creating a habit for pollinators. Local food supports community socially and financially. As groups of people commit to local food there is opportunity for a unique culture and cuisine to develop around food. There is an opportunity to “Slow the Fork Down,” in mindful preparation and sharing of foods. Financial resources can be kept within the community to support small businesses. http://www.slowfoodoc.org/

 

Chris Prelitz, President, Transition Laguna Beach

Chris will discuss how seed saving is an important of a global movement that strives for each community to produce its own local food, water and energy, and to handle waste responsibly – all to create petroleum independence. http://www.transitionlaguna.org

Scott Tenney, Owner, Bluebird Canyon Farms

 Scott will discuss the Bluebird Canyon Farms' Seed Bank in the context of global issues.