Our Mission

CISA links farmers and communities to strengthen agriculture and enhance the economy, rural character, environmental quality, and social well-being of western Massachusetts.

CISA's ‘Be a Local Hero, Buy Locally Grown' public awareness and marketing campaign was launched in 1999 and has become the country's longest running and most comprehensive ‘buy local' program for farm products. Each year more than 120 farms, 12 restaurants, 45 grocery stores and 8 farmers markets join together to raise awareness and sales of locally grown farm products.

The Local Hero campaign uses a wide array of paid advertising - print, radio, web site - and public relations - press releases, events and appearances - to engage the public and increase support for local farmers. 80% of consumers in Franklin and Hampshire Counties recognize the Local Hero logo!

The Local Hero campaign has grown to cover all local farm products, from fruits and vegetables to dairy, poultry, forestry and fiber products. It is regarded as a successful model for communities across the continent and world that are seeking to sustain farming by helping consumers find and purchase locally grown products.

View the current searchable, online Farm Products Guide 

CISA's Local Hero campaign operates in the Pioneer Valley of western Massachusetts, a three-county region spanning the Connecticut River and containing some of the most productive agricultural soils in the world. A large farming community spans the valley, producing diverse seasonal and year-round farm products for local, regional and national consumption.