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…