Asheville – In the wake of Hurricane Helene, the Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project (ASAP) has emerged as a beacon of hope for local farmers, showcasing the power of community and the importance of local food systems. “If we learned anything following the storm, it’s that local matters,” reflects Sarah Hart, ASAP’s Communications and Engagement Director. This sentiment resonates deeply in the newly released 2025–26 Local Food Guide, a free resource that not only lists local farms and food producers but also tells the stories of resilience and recovery that define the region.
A Lifeline for Farmers
The 2025–26 edition of the Local Food Guide is more than just a directory; it’s a testament to the strength of the Appalachian community. The guide features hundreds of Appalachian Grown™ certified farms, farmers markets, restaurants, and artisan producers across Western North Carolina and neighboring states. It also delves into the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which wreaked havoc on local agriculture. Surveys conducted by ASAP revealed that a staggering 86 percent of Appalachian Grown farms reported damage from the storm, with losses estimated at $24.5 million. The financial toll extended beyond physical damage, as restaurant closures and economic downturns further strained these small farms.
Farming in the Southern Appalachians has always been a precarious endeavor, with many farms situated in low-lying river valleys vulnerable to flooding. Oakley Brewer, ASAP’s Communications & Engagement Coordinator, notes that “state and federal disaster relief funds can be slow moving or exclude small farms.” However, community-based organizations like ASAP were quick to respond, connecting directly with farmers to address immediate needs. The spirit of mutual aid and crowdfunding emerged as lifelines for many, with volunteers stepping up to assist in cleanup and rebuilding efforts.
Community Roots: The Southside Community Farm
One shining example of resilience is the Southside Community Farm, which plays a pivotal role in the local food network. Located in a historically Black neighborhood that has lacked a grocery store since the 1970s, this farm is more than just a source of fresh produce; it’s a vital resource for community empowerment. Brewer elaborates on its significance: “Southside Community Farm is making space for Black farmer leaders to emerge and sustain their local food networks.” The farm not only provides access to fresh food but also serves as a platform for youth to learn about food origins and for BIPOC communities to heal from generational trauma tied to the land.
The Local Food Guide also highlights the growth of SNAP programs at farmers markets, which Brewer describes as a “dual benefit program.” By increasing access to fresh food for SNAP recipients while simultaneously putting funds directly into farmers’ pockets, these initiatives help stabilize food accessibility in the region. With higher SNAP participation, farms can maintain price points that are more accessible for all customers.
Celebrating Local Flavor
The guide is not just about survival; it’s also a celebration of local flavor and creativity. It features recipes from renowned local chefs at establishments like Chai Pani and Feed and Seed Co., showcasing how local ingredients can inspire culinary innovation. The guide serves as an advertising outlet for farmers, with one farmer noting that “given the cost of having our farm information in the guide and the number of people it reaches, we could not duplicate this in another advertising outlet.”
Community members echo this sentiment, with one stating that “ASAP’s Local Food Guide is the go-to directory of local farms, food, markets, and restaurants.” For newcomers to the area, like one family who moved in 2018, the guide was instrumental in navigating the local food scene and inspired them to start their own farm in Madison County.
As we look ahead, the Local Food Guide stands as a testament to the resilience and creativity of the Appalachian community. It invites everyone to invest in local businesses and celebrate what makes this region unique. Copies are available at farmers markets, libraries, and various partner businesses throughout Western North Carolina.
In a world where global supply chains often overshadow local producers, ASAP’s mission remains clear: to help local farms thrive and build healthy communities through connections to local food. As Brewer aptly puts it, “Buying from local businesses, knowing who grows your food—this is what strengthens our safety net.”