From public radio to public trails, whatever the mission, without hesitation, our community rallies with seemingly endless amounts of energy, effort and enthusiasm.

It is time to rally again for one endeavor that many of us have taken for granted, yet it affects us all on a daily basis—growing and producing foods locally. One look at edibleASPEN’s Source Guide on page 28 will give you an inkling of who is growing and producing right here in our area. With a growing global food shortage and rising food prices, these farms and businesses recognize the importance of protecting the health, security and longevity of our local food sources.

The following pages present a number of approaches to sustaining and enjoying what is readily available to us. Some of the highlights include the significance and value of planting backyard gardens, patronizing farmers’ markets, canning and preserving, adopting heritage fruit trees and cooking with recipes that utilize the fresh, flavorful foods available in our area.

I am proud to be a member of a community that is dedicated to its values. Please take the opportunity this summer to show your support and ensure that these essential resources will continue and flourish. Tis’ the season to shake the hand that feeds you!

Cheers, Lisa Houston Publisher

edible ASPEN is printed on 20% recycled (10% postconsumer waste) paper using only soy-based inks. Our printer meets or exceeds all Federal Resource Recovery Act (RCRA) Standards and is a certified member of the Forest Stewardship Council.