Exploring Local Fiber as a Path to Sustainability: Highlights from the Farm to Plate Gathering

This session was extremely informative and inspiring in thinking about ways to diversify our agricultural products in ways that are beneficial to the environment and have the potential to bring jobs to Vermont. More of this please! - feedback from session attendee

At the 2024 Vermont Farm to Plate Gathering, the session titled, “Vermont-based Food and Fiber: Increasing Diversified Farm and Market Opportunities” explored how integrating fiber production into Vermont’s agricultural landscape can create new revenue streams, enhance sustainability, and strengthen the local economy. Guided by lead facilitator Christine McGowan of the Vermont Sustainable Jobs Fund (VSJF), the panel brought together experts and farmers to discuss the opportunities and challenges within the growing fiber sector.

The Role of Animal Fibers in Vermont Agriculture

Dave Martin of Settlement Farm in Underhill and president of the Vermont Sheep and Goat Association underscored the historical significance of sheep farming in Vermont, noting that in the early 19th century, wool was the state’s largest agricultural industry. He emphasized that wool should be considered an integral agricultural product with a clear market path.

Kelly Nottermann of Snug Valley Farm in Hardwick shared how her flock of Bluefaced Leicester and Coopworth sheep supports rotational grazing practices, making better use of smaller or less arable plots of land. “Sheep are perfect for areas where cattle aren’t viable due to water needs or terrain,” she noted. However, she stressed that wool production must be economically viable, citing the need for processing outlets and markets for both high-quality wool and waste streams.

Amanda Kievet of Junction Fiber Mill discussed her mill’s approach to custom processing and small-batch production, which supports local farmers while educating consumers about the value of wool. “By elevating the discussion about what yarn should cost and connecting people to its creation, we’re fostering appreciation for sustainable, locally produced fibers,” she said. Amanda also highlighted the need for more local infrastructure, such as scouring mills, to reduce costs and improve efficiency.

Bast (Plant) Fibers: A New Frontier

Janet Currie of Vilhemp USA shared her experience growing hemp for fiber, highlighting its potential as a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based plastics. Hemp, she explained, can be grown on land traditionally used for hay and is harvested before it produces seeds, making it compatible with existing agricultural systems. Janet’s products, such as biodegradable plates and utensils, exemplify the marriage of agriculture and innovation.

Travis Samuels of Zion Growers described his work building processing infrastructure in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom to handle hemp and other bast fibers. By localizing processing, he aims to revitalize the region’s economy and create industrial jobs. “We’re working to bring manufacturing back to Vermont and offer farmers a viable alternative crop,” he stated.

Laura Sullivan of UVM Extension discussed the synergies between hemp and flax production, particularly in sharing infrastructure. She noted that flax can be grown for textiles and bioremediation, offering environmental benefits such as improved soil health and reduced runoff.

Shared Challenges and Opportunities

Panelists and attendees identified several shared challenges across the fiber sector:

• Infrastructure Gaps: A lack of local processing facilities, particularly for scouring wool and wet-spinning bast fibers, drives up costs and limits market opportunities
• Market Development: Farmers need better communication channels and networks to connect with buyers, especially for lower-quality fiber and waste streams
• Consumer Education: Raising awareness about the environmental and economic benefits of local fibers is crucial to shift consumer behavior away from fast fashion and synthetic materials
• Policy Support: Recognizing hemp and flax as specialty crops could unlock insurance options and financial support, while policies incentivizing sustainable practices could boost market demand

Pathways to Success

The session concluded with actionable insights:

• Building Circular Economies: Farmers like Kelly Nottermann emphasized using every part of the fiber, from high-quality wool to compostable waste, to maximize profitability and sustainability
• Investing in Infrastructure: Expanding processing capacity—such as scouring facilities and wool pelletizers—would reduce reliance on out-of-state services and enhance the viability of local fibers
• Collaborative Networks: Connecting farmers, processors, and end-users can create a resilient supply chain. Amanda Kievet’s work with designers and artisans demonstrates the value of such relationships

• Policy Advocacy: With interest from federal representatives, the fiber community has an opportunity to advocate for policies supporting sustainable agriculture and manufacturing

   

This session highlighted the transformative potential of integrating food and fiber production in Vermont, offering a model for sustainable economic development. By addressing supply chain challenges and fostering collaboration, Vermont’s fiber sector can lead the way in creating a resilient and diversified agricultural economy.

What's Next?

Since the Gathering, VSJF has received a small grant from the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board to conduct a wool inventory in Vermont that will develop baseline information about the quantity and quality of wool being grown annually in Vermont for commercial production.  

If you are interested in this project or in advancing Vermont-based natural animal or plant fiber production, please email Christine.