The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) is hosting a series of free workshops this spring to educate Rhode Island farmers about the new Produce Safety Rule (PSR).

The PSR establishes, for the first time, national science-based minimum standards for the safe growing, harvesting, packing, and holding of fruits and vegetables grown for human consumption. DEM’s Division of Agriculture is implementing the PSR in Rhode Island under a cooperative agreement with the federal Food and Drug Administration which includes adopting the PSR into state regulations.

DEM estimates the new rule will apply to about half of Rhode Island’s approximately 350 produce farms. Those farms with average produce sales (over the previous three years) amounting to greater than $500K are considered large, are covered by the rule, and will be inspected beginning in Spring 2019. Farms with average produce sales (over the previous three years) that amount to between $250K-$500K (small farm) or $25K-$250K (very small farm) also are covered by the rule but may be eligible for an exemption from the rule that includes modified requirements. Those farms with produce sales under $25K are not covered by the rule; DEM estimates that more than half – about 52 percent – of Rhode Island’s produce farms fall below this threshold.

Advance registration is requested by emailing Abigail.Phillips@dem.ri.gov

Tour and taste your way through our monthly makers marketplace and open house! A rotating cast of the newest and most exciting Rhode Island-based food and beverage companies will be here to meet and mingle with you! Explore an abundance of well-made goods like freshly roasted coffee and cold drinks, fresh produce and farm goods, prepared foods, specialty products, sweet treats and lovely gifts.

Stop by the Demonstration Kitchen for hands-on activities, cooking demonstrations and tastings and get real nutrition advice. Caterers, food trucks and chefs will also be on site cooking up brunch and lunch to order all season. All food fans welcome!

VENDORS

TBA

BRUNCH & LUNCH

TBA

THIS EVENT IS FREE. PARKING IS FREE. RIPTA #60.