East Montpelier, VT – Ski Vermont presented a contribution check of a record-breaking $16,365 to the Keep Local Farms Fund at Fairmont Farm in East Montpelier last week. The donation comes from the proceeds of Ski Vermont’s Fifth Grade Passport program which enabled nearly 2,500 children to ski and snowboard for free in Vermont during the 2014-15 season.
The Keep Local Farms Fund supports the long-term viability of New England’s dairy farms through three strategies: educating New Englanders about dairy farming, promoting purchases of milk and other dairy foods, and raising funds to support the sustainability of New England’s dairy farms. Ski Vermont has donated to the Keep Local Farms Fund for the last three years with contributions totaling nearly $45,000.
“Another season, another record!” said Ski Vermont Public Relations Director Sarah Wojcik. “Coming off the best season recorded in Vermont, it’s no surprise we also saw growth in the participation of the fifth grade passport program and increased our donation once again. We’re very proud to be continued supporters of our local farmers with a contribution that will go toward preserving and sustaining Vermont’s iconic dairy farms and the livelihood of our neighbors.”
“We are honored to partner with Ski Vermont, a like-minded partner who appreciates and understands the connection between dairy agriculture and tourism and its benefits to Vermont’s economy and environment,” said New England Dairy Promotion Board Public Relations and Communication Specialist Laura Hardie.
This year, the donations to the Keep Local Farms Fund in Vermont are proposed to support farmer outreach and education through two agricultural organizations; the Champlain Valley Farmer Coalition (CVFC), and Dairy Vision Vermont.
CVFC is a non‐profit organization that works directly with area farmers to provide education and assistance in meeting water quality standards for a clean Lake Champlain and a thriving agriculture industry in Vermont. Through CVFC, farmers are provided with the tools and resources to adopt new and innovative ways to protect and conserve our water supply.
Dairy Vision Vermont is a non-profit organization that provides Vermont’s dairy farmers with the business skills and guidance needed to create successful dairy operations. From on the job training on finance to human resources, the goal of Dairy Vision is to provide education that leads to a vibrant and profitable dairy industry for Vermont.
Ski Vermont’s Fifth Grade Passport program is entering its 16th year, enabling over 20,000 children to ski free at Vermont resorts and inspiring them to connect with the Vermont landscape. Passports are available for the 2015-16 season for a $10 processing fee. The proceeds from this fee will be donated to Keep Local Farms in 2016.