The APPPA member response to the COVID 19 outbreak has been filled with grace, compassion, and strength in community. I (Mike Badger) have been checking in with people throughout this last week and everyone is busy serving their communities with access to locally produced food.

Farms are literally shifting sales models on the fly from wholesale to direct sales with delivery routes, shipping, and running hard to meet an increased demand. They are forming collaborative sales groups quickly and sorting out the details as they go. Farms are holding prices stable despite high demand.

It's too early to know what the new normal will look like for pastured poultry farms after this outbreak subsides.

Here is something I do know.

Farmers, you are essential.

Communities are rediscovering how essential you are.

When the store shelves are bare, it is APPPA members and farmers like them who are stepping in and bringing a reassuring face to their food.

I am not surprised. I am thankful.

This is the type of rapid, personal, food secure approach a local and regional economy promises. While you're running and shipping, you should know people notice your actions, and we appreciate them.

--Mike Badger