A Multitude of Opportunities: From Dinosaurs to a Farmers' Diner

"Things have snowballed," observes one resident about all the changes going on in Glendive, Montana. "Negativism is being replaced by enthusiasm for diverse projects." Community members from many backgrounds and interests are joining together to help grow Glendive, beautify the community with cleanups and artistic murals, and develop its tourism potential. Glendive now promotes what is in their backyard and is eastern Montana's best-kept secret: the majestic Badlands and hidden dinosaur fossils.

Wilmington, Vermont · From the bucolic setting on 210 acres of the sixth generation Adams Family Farm in Wilmington, Vermont, one couldn't imagine more diverse -- and integrated -- enterprises creatively woven together to sustain the land and the farmers who farm it. Jill and Carl Mancivalano own and manage one of Vermont's most popular agritourism attractions, Adams Family Farm, leasing the farmlands from Jill's parents. The energetic couple also produce numerous value-added products made in a commercial kitchen using products grown or raised on the farm or from area farmers.

Amado, AZ · Harvest spring lettuce, wander a corn maze, pick pumpkins, flock with the sheep in the petting zoo. Whatever the season, Agua Linda Farm in Amado, Arizona, offers a buffet of reasons to keep coming back to the farm throughout the year. And that's just how owner Stewart Loew likes it. "We always have something available to pick, eat or experience," says Stewart. "We provide a slice of farm life, an opportunity to have fun in a new setting for an afternoon."

The Angry Trout Café on Minnesota's north shore serves fresh, delicious foods made from organic and locally grown ingredients. Owners George Wilkes and Barb La Vigne believe that making good environmental choices lead to a better business.

Covert, Michigan  · From Arellano's Fresh Fruit Market stand, the 50 acres of apples, peaches, blueberries and a diverse selection of other fruits and vegetables entices even the most casual drive-by passengers, many en route to vacation homes or recreational activities on Lake Michigan just two miles from the 60 acre farm. Their jammed-packed farm stand is a well-served reward for their interest in continuing their Mexican farming traditions and those of the previous owner-farmer.

Nauvoo, IL · With a 12-acre vineyard and wine-making plant, Brenda and Kelly Logan are preserving a family tradition that dates back to 1857 when Kelly’s great, great grandfather planted the first grapes on this west central Illinois farm. The couple is also helping to preserve the history of Nauvoo, a community whose past is steeped in the drama of religious clashes and prohibition.

Bayfront Harvest Festival focuses on urban-rural partnerships with mission of bringing "producers and consumers together to develop a healthy and sustainable local food system."

Roger and Michelle Benrud's 267-acre farm has been in the family since the 1940's. Through a careful system of rotational grazing the Benrud's have found a way to farm in balance with the land.

Residents have joined together in working groups to assess their community in terms of resources and needs.

In Brainerd, residents have a vision for a healthier community and people are working together to optimize their many resources.