Community Roots

 One Program - Two Projects

"We abuse land because we regard it as a commodity belonging to us. When we see land as a community to which we belong, we may begin to use it with love and respect." --Aldo Leopold

The Kootenai Environmental Alliance recognizes the need to look beyond trees and water to be conscious of environmental impact.  Most food systems in the greater United States operate on a consumerist mindset; they fulfill the immediate need for inexpensive groceries through large-scale farming, importing food, and removing sustainable agricultural practices.  This leads to an absurd amount of "food miles" that each meal travels before we receive it.  This increases our "carbon footprint" and degrades the aquifers, farm land, and surrounding wilderness in heavy-production areas.  Harmful pesticides devastate local flora and fauna, and irresponsible irrigation drains and pollutes water tables.  As environmental stewards, KEA promotes a healthy food circle by sponsoring the program of Community Roots, which develops a healthy local food system, meets the nutritional needs of our community, and educates the public on sustainable agricultural practices.  Learn more about the Story of Community Roots, or check out the two projects it encompasses:

Roots Local Food Share Local Food Share is a volunteer-based program that collects excess produce from local farmers and gardeners to distribute to food assistance facilities in our area.  Many gardeners reach a point in their season where they have grown more produce than their family can consume.  Most food banks and soup kitchens receive primarily boxed or preserved goods which are limited in nutrition and taste. Local Food Share addresses these holes in our food system by bridging the gap between gardener and facility.  Simply bring your excess produce to one of our drop off sites and we will ensure your donation goes directly to the people who need it most.  Volunteers are the foundation of this program, so consider spending some time with fellow Roots volunteers making bicycle-powered deliveries, and see for yourself how this program impacts the lives of those who receive this nutritious gift.

Roots CSA The Roots CSA Coeur d'Alene's first Community Supported Agriculture program.  "Shareholders" pay an annual fee in exchange for a steady supply of fruits and vegetables throughout the growing season.  The Roots CSA continues to meet the needs of all members of the community by matching each "full" share with a discounted price share for a low-income household in our area.  The CSA model is one of sustainability; it preserves farmland, reduces the carbon footprint of "food miles," increases biodiversity in agriculture, and fosters the economy by keeping food dollars in the local area.  Learn more about this exciting program and how you can contribute to (and benefit from!) the project.  Read the Press Release here.

Did you miss the Roots Pursuit? Check out pictures from the event and start planning your team for next year!  View the pictures here and get a taste of the fun.