In the Pacific Northwest 2009 has started out with a bang and a washed out highway. The people of western Washington have been having a difficult time of it lately, especially those in the south and northwestern regions (not to mention the insane amount of snow they have been getting on the eastside in Spokane) of the I-5 corridor. We have been dealing with wind, snow and rain that has resulted in major roads washing out and halted shipments. Appel Farms in Ferndale had to halt production because of a particularly ferocious windstorm and Black Sheep Creamery had to evacuate their sheep to higher ground to avoid the flooding.
The last time this happened, the already struggling farm industry took a huge hit, but thankfully most eeked by. This year who knows if they will be so lucky. If you can help, please pick up a wedge of local cheese or other locally raised product and help the farmers get through this tough time.
Check out the sidebar on the Pacific Northwest Cheese Project website for a list of Washington State dairies.
** Check back in a few days for the post I had originally planned for today!
Erin, I’m loading up the dinghy and paddling northward to buy cheese!!!
Can I bring you a Mudslide from Portland?
Thanks Jen! I knew I could count on you! Things in Oregon can’t be much better, so I’ll be loading up on Argyle and Oregonzola along with my Washingtonian goods.
Keep the faith up there, Girl!
Have you been washed away??
Only kidding. I’m originally from Seattle and have been watching with fascination the crazy weather you guys have been having this winter.
I love sheep’s milk cheeses!!! OMG!
Hi Mindy, Welcome to The Endive Chronicles! Thankfully here in the city we have only had the inconvenience of sinking into the mud while walking the dog. I know a few people south of here who were contemplating pulling out their canoes.
I shouldn’t be saying this since I am asking people to purchase Washington products, but; if you enjoy sheep’s milk cheese you must try the Old Chatham Shepherding Company’s Ewe’s Blue. It is amazing.