Supporting Walton's Local Food Economy
History
It all started with a rare breed of Byrd...
A pioneer in the local food movement,
Andy Byrd, owned
Whippoorwill Hollow Organic Farm in Walnut Grove. Andy and his wife Hilda were among the earliest organic farmers in the southeast. Their commitment to organic farming came after a cancer diagnosis for Hilda. In addition to following doctor’s orders they also started seeking answers outside of traditional American medicine. Their search led them to organic farming and the creation of their farm in Walnut Grove. It also seeded a dream of what would become a flagship event for local food in Atlanta
Field of Greens was one of the first festivals in Georgia organized around local food and micro farming. Field Of Greens and the Byrd’s are responsible for influencing a new generation of Georgia farmers and chefs in the local food movement. Because of these influences Walton County is a hub for micro farms today.
Hilda Lost her battle with cancer 10 years after her original diagnosis
We lost Andy in 2019
Founding of the Food Alliance
Founding Members
Having this type of hometown connection to the local food movement has blazed the path for the creation of The Walton Local Food Alliance. Our Alliance is made up of farmers, chefs, interested citizens, agriculture, environmental, education and health focused organizations, law enforcement and city governments. we have joined forces for the purpose of supporting our local food economy.
