Yarmouth acts to solidify, expand farming business (complete article from source)
Source: Cape Cod Times, by Robert Gold
September 27, 2007
YARMOUTHPORT — John Holbrook has a message for people who find it hard to connect the town with farming.
"There is more going on than people think," said Holbrook, who owns Holbrook House Farm on Union Street.
Holbrook runs a self-pick blueberry and raspberry farm, along with a nursery. Often, children wade along his rows of fruit, gobbling up the sweet treats. "They stuff more berries into their mouth than they pay for and I could care less," he said. "It gives families something to do."
Holbrook hopes a new commission started by the town could draw more business to Yarmouth farms. He even plans on applying for a seat on the panel.
"I think it would be good to have a cross-group of people," he said.
This week, the board of selectmen approved starting up the agricultural commission.
The five-person panel is designed to help preserve land for farms, market existing businesses and help local farmers apply for state grants.
There are at least 28 farms in Yarmouth, said Scott Soares of the state Department of Agricultural Resources.
"I think there are a lot of small, little farms," said Selectman James Hoben, who urged his colleagues to start the commission.
"Anyone puts a table out with tomatoes, there is almost an accident as people try and pull in (to the stands). They can't buy them fast enough," he said.
Hoben said he hopes the commission helps start community gardens and a farmer's market by next year. "I think it brings people together," he said.
The commission will also help educate farmers about financial options, Hoben said, including the town's agricultural tax exemption.
Town Assessor Matt Zurowick said about half a dozen farms currently have agricultural exemption contracts. The 10-year deal allows farms that use at least 5 acres of land for farming to receive 90 percent off their property taxes. In return, the town must have the first option to buy the land if the owners decide to sell.
Hoben said he expects to start interviewing candidates for the farming panel immediately, making recommendations to the full board of selectmen next month. Candidates, who apply through the town administrator's office or on the town's Web site, would serve three-year terms.
Like Holbrook, Martin Rivero plans to apply.
The Yarmouth farmer grows several varieties of fruits and vegetables on about 5 acres of land in town. Rivero said small farmers need a support system to help sell their produce to local restaurants and residents.
"It's not just everybody going to Grand Union or Stop and Shop," he said.
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