Sharing food photos earns dollars for local produce

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Sharing pictures of your food on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram just got better, thanks to the Local Flavor Challenge by Clark County Grown.

Farmers market shoppers who share photos of their bounty can earn $5 and $10 gift certificates to spend on their next visit.

“Everyone is posting pictures of their meals on social media already,” said Warren Neth, executive director of Slow Food Southwest Washington. “Just take it one step further: use the hashtags, and you’ve got some bucks to spend on your next farmers market visit.”

Clark County Grown is a campaign to support local farmers and food producers. They coordinate Seasonal Socials to grow a local food network, offer education programs to teach consumers about healthy local foods, and provide resources to help shoppers find farmers markets, local food producers, and Community Supported Agriculture groups.

Local food is a critical economic driver for local economies, say the organizers. An estimated $6 million is spent each day on food in Clark County, and buying locally grown and processed food keeps more of those dollars in the community.



Plus, said Neth, buying Clark County Grown food means that produce travels a shorter distance and is fresher, retaining more of its nutritional value.

To participate in the Local Flavor Challenge, you need an account on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. Then post two photos of Clark County Grown produce and net $5; two photos of meals made with Clark County grown ingredients in a month nets the cook $10.

Include the hashtag “#localflavorchallenge” in the comment section for the photos on Twitter (@clarkgrown), Facebook (@clarkcountygrown) and Instagram (@clarkgrown). Winners will receive instructions from Clark County Grown on how to claim their gift certificates at their favorite farmers market.

Find more information at www.clarkcountygrown.org/clarkcountyfarmersmarket.