Local gardeners unite to protect Kingston’s seeds and food security
The Kingston Area Seed System Initiative (KASSI) is working to ensure food and seed sovereignty in the Kingston region. Founded by local farmers, gardeners, and community members, this non-profit group focuses on preserving locally adapted, open-pollinated seeds through its Living Seed Commons.
KASSI chair Cathy Christie explains.
KASSI distributes seeds to farmers, market gardeners, schools, and others while building a network of skilled seed savers. They aim to support sustainable local food systems and ensure seeds can be legally grown, saved, and shared. As Cathy notes it takes dedicated volunteers to get seeds from the soil to gardeners. One of the main events they host annually is Seedy Saturday.
Although KASSI currently has no paid staff, volunteers on the Board of Directors, committees, and as Seed Guardians are vital to their success. Past grant funding enabled key projects, but the organization now relies on community efforts to continue its mission.
KASSI is calling for more growers and seed savers to join in creating a sustainable, food-secure future for the Kingston area. Learn more about their work and how to help. Check out seedsgrowfood.org for more information.
