Guest Commentary | Small, BIPOC local farmers need our help after floods

As the climate changes, extreme weather events such as flooding become more frequent and severe, leaving small and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) farmers vulnerable. Although these farmers contribute significantly to their local economies and ecosystems, they often lack the resources and support needed to recover from natural disasters. This is where we come in- as consumers, we have the power to help these farmers get back on their feet.

Small farmers, many of whom belong to marginalized groups, face significant barriers to accessing relief and recovery resources. They are less likely to have insurance or savings to cover the cost of damages, and may not have the political connections or language skills needed to navigate government aid programs. Additionally, BIPOC farmers have historically faced discrimination in accessing land and resources, further complicating their recovery.

As the author of the article notes, one way to support small and BIPOC farmers after a flood is to buy from them directly. Purchasing produce from local farmers markets, subscribing to a CSA (community supported agriculture) program, or visiting a farm stand not only provides much-needed income for farmers, but also helps to build resilience and community relationships that can be crucial for recovery.

Another way to support small farmers is through advocacy efforts. This might involve calling on elected officials to allocate more resources for disaster relief and climate resilience programs, or demanding that insurance companies provide affordable coverage for small farmers. It can also mean supporting policy changes that address the root causes of flooding and other climate-related challenges, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions and protecting wetlands and other natural flood-control structures.

In short, small and BIPOC farmers play a critical role in our food systems and our communities. By supporting them in the aftermath of floods, we can help to build more sustainable and equitable systems that are better prepared to weather the increasing impacts of climate change.