Autumn has finally arrived. The cooler weather and changing leaves (the ones left after Irene blew through) are quite refreshing after the summer. What better place to experience it than in our diverse little state of Rhode Island. Besides the cities, like Providence and Newport, there are a number of rural communities which still have the family farms. I was reminded of that this past weekend as I visited one of my favorite farm stands in Little Compton. But while I was at the Young Family Farm, I happened upon a brochure for the Rhode Island Fruit Growers Association’s 2011 Farm Scavenger Hunt. Visiting some of the participating twenty-four farms is definitely a whole new way to tour Rhode Island in autumn. The hunt runs through December 31, 2011 and adds a new twist to the traditional fall activities, such as apple picking.
The goal of the contest is to either visit a minimum of twelve participating farms and match the correct picture clue, located on the brochure and website with the farm, or if you’re feeling even more adventurous, visit all of the twenty-four farms and fill out the farm hunt board. The first 100 correct entries from either competition win.
The beauty of this is stepping outside to enjoy the changing weather and scenery in the different areas of Rhode Island. At the same time, you are also supporting the Rhode Island Fruit Growers Association. This association works with URI and UMass on research to continue the production of healthy, delicious and fresh fruit.
Their website has tons of information on local farmers markets, grower information and even recipes to prepare the great produce grown right here. Make sure you check that out, even if you are not the “scavenger hunt” type of person.
