The Chester County Ag Council has published the new edition of "The Chester County Farm Guide." This publication features the county's diverse array of farms and locally grown products from artisan cheeses, flowers, and wine to heirloom tomatoes, meats, and eggs. The guide, highlighting over 125 family-owned farms and markets, includes a map and farm addresses, plus a chart that indicates what is currently in season.

In this year's guide, Farmer of the Year Jamie Hicks of Hicks IV in Cochranville cites sustainability and innovation as his primary business drivers. He sees opportunity in new markets and customers, including the hemp industry and partnering with online retailers looking for environmentally friendly packaging materials. But first and foremost, Hicks focuses on the soil health of the thousands of acres he leases.

The "Chester County Farm Guide" also celebrates the vibrant network of Chester County farmers and service providers who serve as the backbone of the local food system. Among the featured entities is Avon Grove Charter School's Micro-Farm, which is making a big impact on over 1,000 students a year from the Avon Grove, Oxford, Coatesville, Kennett, Octorara, and Unionville regions. Micro-Farm manager and agriculture teacher Krista Lauterwald works with her fellow teachers and school administration to weave farming into everyday curricula with hands-on experiences like caring for the school's livestock, "Bee Academy," and hydroponic garden systems in the greenhouse.

The Chester County Farm Guide is available free of charge at libraries, township and county offices, Kimberton Whole Foods locations, and select farm stands across the county. Readers may also access the guide at http://www.chescofarming.org.