Twelve years ago, State Rep. Lyndon Yearick partnered with the Delaware Department of Agriculture to establish Delaware Grown Week — an annual observation to facilitate better, healthier relationships between Delaware farmers and local consumers.
Last week, Rep. Yearick sponsored House Concurrent Resolution 125, designating May 17-23 as Delaware Grown Week 2026.
Rep. Yearick, who grew up on a dairy farm, said encouraging Delawareans to buy and eat local keeps money circulating in the community, provides consumers with the freshest produce and value-added products, and all but eliminates the energy needed to transport food to market.
There are many ways to connect to local farmers. At least 27 community-run farmers markets will be operating in Delaware this year. Delaware has 16 “u-pick” operations that offer a distinctive experience where customers harvest what they consume, and 16 Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs.
“CSAs are especially interesting,” Rep. Yearick said. “Consumers purchase a share of a farm’s harvest in advance and get periodic boxes of fresh, locally grown produce throughout the season. These programs vary in length and cost, with full-share and other options available. Members pick up their boxes at the farm or at designated drop-off locations.”
Unlike traditional retail or standard subscription services, CSA members share in the agricultural risks and bounties. If the farm experiences a bumper crop, members get more; if a specific crop does poorly, the yield is reduced. “And patrons get exposed to fruits and vegetables they might otherwise never try,” Rep. Yearick said.
Numerous farms and the Food Bank of Delaware operate CSA programs. For information, click here.
“Regardless of how you connect, taking advantage of what’s raised and grown in our state is a win for everyone,” Rep. Yearick said.
For more information on patronizing Delaware’s family farms, click here.
