Many North and South Carolina residents are not aware, but farmers account for close to 20 percent of the GDP in both states.   In addition, the Carolinas are home to one of the most diverse small farm populations in the world with the average size of farms ranging from 18 to 20 acres in size.   North Carolina is a top producer of over seven different types of agriculture and food commodities in the United States including apples, chickens, sweet potatoes, cucumbers, hogs, and Christmas trees.   In addition the Carolinas support one of the strongest “farm to fork” organizations in the Eastern United States.   Rivendell Farms of the Carolinas (RFC) is working closely with organizations like the Carolina Farm Stewardship Association, the Piedmont Culinary Guild, and the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Food Policy Council to support and encourage “good food and good farming practices” in our region.