How locally grown food can move beyond weekend farmers markets: Matthew Burch at TEDxOU

Matthew Burch is an Oklahoma native who has been working in our food system from restaurants to grocery stores, on farms, farmers' markets, and in food distribution since 2001. His company, Urban Agrarian was founded in 2008 to act as a distributor of Oklahoma agricultural products and other locally produced foods. Headquartered in the historic Farmers Market District, Mr. Burch hopes to help revive Oklahoma City's once flourishing produce district and bring an increased viability to local food production statewide.
In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)

[@cherylwilson5963]

I am so excited to see others interest in our Oklahoma food system. I wish I could have been at TEDx OU. Here in rural south central OK, we have worked hard to establish a farmers market. We have an awesome location on the second busiest intersection on Main Street and we have customers excited to get fresh produce. Our problem is we have a shortage of growers. We now have two local grocery stores in the county. Most people drive 12 to 40 miles to shop at WalMart.

[@mommipreneur]

I love your ideas!!! I love FarmersMarkets!! Your concept is amazing!! Can't wait.

[@Urbanagrarian]

Thank you so much!