Story Telling Session-- The Organic Production of Traditional Crops by Mixteco Farmer Project

This presentation took place at the Michigan Family Farms Conference 2022. Mr. Antonino García has vast experience in the production of traditional agricultural products using organic practices, which he gained working at his family farm in Mexico. After working for many years as a migrant farmworker, a few years ago he bought a small farm in Van Buren County, Michigan where he is using his experience in the production of organic agricultural products. Due to the increased demand of tomatillo criollo, Kusa squash, garlic, beans (yellow, green, and purple), and hot peppers, Mr. Antonino Garcia is planning to expand his current production of traditional agricultural products to sell at local markets and to expand the marketing of his products to new markets. This project is Ecologically Sound since it does not use any type of chemicals in the production process, is economically viable since it will increase his farm revenues and profits in the end. Finally, the project is Socially Responsible because it will improve his quality of life, as well as that of other underserved farmers. In addition, he plans to share his experience and knowledge with other farmers in the community.