publisher ’ s message
We were put on this magical planet , not to dominate and consume her , but to care for her and love her . To harrow gently . To harvest gratefully . To build reasonably .
~ david paul kirkpatrick
The fragility of the world we grew up with has never been more apparent . As existential issues loom large , the role of agriculture — how we grow our food and how we care for our soil — has taken on enormous significance as we look for positive ways forward .
Here in Montgomery County , we have an extraordinary asset : 93,000 acres of protected farmland called the Agricultural Reserve . It is the largest such reserve in the United States and has served as a model for the nation . During the pandemic , farmers and helpers in the Reserve stepped forward providing yeoman service to county residents facing food shortages , food insecurity and hunger like never before .
As we look to 2022 and beyond , it is unlikely that the Reserve will become any less precious to us . It is truly a gem worth protecting as we continue to support those who care for these lands . And they have grown a bountiful autumn harvest to share with us all .
In spite of the many challenges we will continue to face in the coming months , there is much to be grateful for , and our Agricultural Reserve is one of them .
Jane Perini & Wib Middleton