Here is the start of a growing list of producers and healthy foods grown and/or processed as locally as possible for individuals, schools and preschools, and other institutions to consider for their needs. These are only some of the sources for local products here, so ask around for more. We have included some specifics especially for young children because of our Farm to Preschool project.
Last Updated: April 2026
Local Producers:
- Southwest Producers Directory – a new producer-led Directory including farmer and rancher listings, CSAs, farm stores and farmers markets, and a map to guide you in your search.
- Find growers at the numerous Farmers Markets and farm stands in most area towns. Shop at the market or ask growers if you can order from them.
- The Old Fort – Fort Lewis College Campus Farm Stand, CSA, & Country Store – contact for any wholesale prices and current availability.
- Durango Farmers Market – Vendors and products
- James Ranch – find their own beef, produce, cheese, and more – as well as items from local producers – at their Market and Grill.
“Shopping List”:
Note: This list is generally for La Plata & neighboring counties. For other parts of the greater Southwest region, contact us or preferably your own local food group. This is in no way a complete list, nor can we verify or endorse any product claims or availability, but we simply want to help you find good healthy food locally.
Selected Products:
Fruit
Pick your own or support local producers at the Farmers Market. Check the Fruit Gleaning Hub by Bear Smart and the Good Food Collective to source some local fruit and help the local bears at the same time. Apples slices dehydrate or freeze very well—use a fruit juice dip to prevent browning (pineapple is our favorite)—and applesauce freezes well (if you blend your sauce after cooking, you can skip peeling the apples and retain more nutrients).
Beans
Adobe Milling Co., Dove Creek CO
Stores: Look for at area retail stores. Delivery may be available.
Local ingredients: Anasazi, pinto, bolita, & black dry beans & more.
Learn about types of dry beans and their uses from Cook’s Thesaurus and find two videos on how to cook dry beans here.
https://www.anasazibeans.com/index.html
Contact other dry bean growers in your area and check at local retail stores.
Cornmeal
Bow & Arrow Brand, Towaoc CO
Stores: Look for at area retail stores. Delivery may be available.
Local ingredients: Non-GMO cornmeal
https://bowandarrowbrand.com/
Meat:
- Sunnyside Meats sells local ground beef and other meat products. Check with them on availability and possible wholesale prices.
- Sunnyside Farms Market for many local products
- Ask local meat vendors at farmers markets or contact your local ranchers. (Must be USDA processed for schools and preschools.)
Honey & More
Honeyville
Stores: Factory/retail store & most local grocery stores
Local ingredients: Honey, jams, jellies, sauces
http://www.honeyvillecolorado.com/
Tortillas & Tortilla Chips
Zia Tortilla Company
Local ingredients: Local, non-GMO corn & Colorado sunflower oil.
https://ziataqueria.com/zia-tortilla-company/
Whole Wheat Bread & More
Serious Delights
Stores: Nature’s Oasis
Wide variety of breads including local ingredients.
http://seriousdelights.com/
