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Tuscarora Organic Growers (TOG) driver Ray Smith is in the middle of unwrapping a pallet of fresh organic vegetables and organizing individual customer orders on adjcent pallets, while in the Washington, D.C, on Tuesday Aug 2, 2016. TOG’s staff of 4 full time employees and up to 18 part time employees ensures each farm receives 70-75% of the sale of their produce. The balance is used to operate the co-op and make deliveries to its markets in the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area. Starting in 1988, Tuscarora currently has 50 producer-members and generates about $3.5 million in annual sales. The members’ farms average 5-15 acres, with their major products being produce destined for restaurants, food co-ops and independent retailers. By providing a marketing and distribution system for small-scale produce growers in the Northeast, the Tuscarora co-op helps members’ diversify their crops and increase profitability. For the story behind these photos go to Rural Cooperatives Magazine and subscribe to future digital editions at www.rd.usda.gov/publications/rural-cooperatives-magazine

For more information about USDA Rural Development please go to www.rd.usda.gov/

For more information about USDA please go to www.usda.gov