The Spencer Creek Grange in Eugene, Oregon, is a dynamic, local organization supporting:
Participatory democracy
Founded in 1867, the Grange is the nation’s oldest farm organization and supports community, agriculture, and education. The Spencer Creek Grange is bringing these ideals into the 21st century by being relevant to today’s families and today’s issues. We are especially concerned with promoting a sustainable community and local economy, and we believe local farmers and food producers are critical to that goal.Community Events and Activities
We host the Spencer Creek Community Growers’ Market from late May to October, the Very Berry Pancake Breakfast in August, our annual Chicken BBQ in September, our popular Haunted House around Halloween and a Holiday Bazaar and Christmas Program in December.
Providing a local gathering place
The Grange hall is available and used for many kinds of events, including classes, receptions and meetings.
Sustainable agriculture
The Spencer Creek Grange is committed to supporting local, sustainable farmers. On June 5th of 2010 we celebrated the Grand Opening of the Spencer Creek Community Growers’ Market. Word of this alternative backyard growers’ market continues to spread as neighbors enjoy the convenience of shopping for fresh fruits and vegetables, eggs, locally raised beef, lamb and chicken, flowers, wool, honey and crafts, often within walking or bicycling distance of their home.
Local, sustainable agriculture is critical to reducing our dependence on foreign oil: the more local our food is, the less we rely on petroleum to ship our food. Industrialized agriculture degrades soil fertility and increases dependence on chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Nearly half of all climate-heating greenhouse gases are emitted from industrialized agriculture, according to a recent study by GRAIN, an international non-governmental organization.
So, consider buying your fresh produce directly from the producer. In addition to supporting the local economy and doing the right thing for the planet, you’ll be taking home food of higher quality, taste and nutrition.
Participatory democracy
The Grange provides a unique way to get involved in state and national politics. Local granges can approve a resolution that can be taken forward to the Oregon State Grange conference. If it is approved at the state level, the grange will have its lobbyist support the issue.
