Exploring the Roots of Food Independence
In the heart of Ohio's Amish country, the Food Independence Summit has become a beacon for those yearning to reconnect with a simpler, more self-reliant way of life. Held on June 18-19 at Timbercrest RV Campground in Walnut Creek, this event marked its fourth year in 2025, drawing homesteaders and curious individuals alike. Co-founded by John Miller of Superb Canning and Marcus Wengerd of Berlin Seeds, the summit focuses on teaching skills that harken back to a time when many Americans grew their own food and knew exactly where it came from.
The summit's theme for 2025, 'Seed to Spoon,' encapsulates the journey from planting to harvesting and preparing homegrown food. Attendees are immersed in a variety of workshops and talks that cover everything from canning to seed saving, reflecting a growing movement spurred by events like the COVID pandemic, which highlighted the fragility of modern food supply chains. This event isn't just about nostalgia; it's about equipping people with practical knowledge to face contemporary challenges.
Hands-On Learning and Community Building
The Food Independence Summit offers a hands-on approach, with expert-led sessions that include canning techniques by John Miller and discussions on seeds as a vital resource by Marcus Wengerd. Other speakers, such as Joel Salatin and Sarah Thrush, contribute insights on sustainable farming and food preservation, fostering a sense of empowerment among participants. The event's location in Walnut Creek, surrounded by Amish and Mennonite farms, provides an authentic backdrop that underscores the viability of these age-old practices.
Beyond individual skills, the summit emphasizes the importance of community. As posts on X have noted, self-sufficiency doesn't mean isolation but rather interdependence within a supportive network. Attendees leave not only with new skills but also with connections to like-minded individuals, creating a ripple effect as they share knowledge in their own communities.
The event also serves as a family-friendly gathering, offering activities that engage all ages. This inclusive atmosphere helps demystify homesteading, making it accessible to urban dwellers and rural residents alike who are eager to reduce reliance on industrial food systems.
A Growing Movement for Sustainable Living
The significance of the Food Independence Summit extends beyond its two-day duration, reflecting a broader trend towards sustainable living and food security. With supply chain disruptions becoming more frequent, whether due to natural disasters or labor strikes, events like this provide critical education on how to grow, preserve, and prepare food independently. The summit's focus on 'healthy living and self-sufficiency,' as highlighted in recent coverage, resonates with a public increasingly concerned about food origins and quality.
Organizers hope to inspire a return to the practices of past generations while adapting them to modern needs. In a region where horse-drawn buggies share roads with cars, the summit stands as a bridge between tradition and innovation, encouraging attendees to rethink their relationship with food. As this movement grows, events like the Food Independence Summit could play a pivotal role in shaping a more resilient future for American families.