Small-scale agriculture is a labor of love.

Long hours, slim profit margins, and climate change all impact the ability of a small farm to grow and sell food in a way that is environmentally, financially, and personally sustainable.

For the last 24 years, the Vashon Island Growers Association (VIGA) has recognized this fact and has worked to support those who choose this way of life on our island. Currently, there are over 50 active growers and producers on Vashon Maury. Eggs, beef, poultry, pork, shellfish, vegetables, fruits, grains, honey, bread, dairy products, preserved and canned foods, flowers and native plants are all available through island farm stands, CSA (community-supported agriculture) subscriptions, the Saturday Farmers Market, and the Food Bank.

So, how does VIGA help?

In addition to running the Saturday Farmers Market, VIGA hosts a co-op table, which enables small producers to participate in selling their food without the cost of insurance, table or stall fees, or weekly commitment of time.

To encourage and support new growers, and to introduce our island’s many farm stands, VIGA’s Get Growing Program has produced over a dozen videos that provide inspiration and useful information and are entertaining as well.

VIGA’s food production and preservation committee oversees a lending library of farm equipment such as items necessary for poultry harvesting, dehydrators for food preservation, seed spreaders and farrowers.

It also provides annual bulk ordering offerings that reduce the costs of feed, seed, and cover crop.

It distributes small grants for organic or regenerative agricultural practice upgrades and operates a food preservation program that relies on gleaned or donated produce, fruit, or meals that are then freeze-dried for future distribution through island social service partners.

The Food Access Partnership ensures every islander can eat the beautiful food grown here. By creating an alternative currency — VIGA Farm Bucks — and through the Farm Stand credit program, islanders can boost their economic purchasing power whether shopping at the Farmers Market or at island farm stands.

VIGA is an all-volunteer organization.

There are no offices or paid staff, just folks who believe in the value of locally grown food and equitable access to it.

For 24 years a revolving crew of dedicated board members and countless volunteers have kept the dream of a truly sustainable agricultural economy on Vashon alive.

“When we support our growers we invest in our community, act on behalf of the climate, keep money circulating within our island economy, create a more resilient food system, and eat fresher, more nutritious food,” said Michele Batchelder, current VIGA Board President.

VIGA’s many programs rely on individual donations, business sponsorships, grants, and membership dues. You can help too! Support VIGA, become a member, of “better yet,” Batchelder said, “become a monthly donor, or attend a fundraiser.”

Catherine Johnson lives, writes, and farms with her wife of more than 30 years on Vashon. For more information about VIGA, to become a monthly donor, visit vigavashon.org/donate, or to purchase events for an upcoming fundraiser go to vigavashon.org/events.