In this episode of The Good Stuff presented by the Sonoma County Winegrowers, hosts Virginie Boone and Karissa Kruse talk to Carmen Snyder, Executive Director at Sonoma County Farm Trails, & Executive Director and Producer at Gravenstein Apple Fair.
About Carmen Snyder
When living in an intentional farming community in North Carolina, Carmen fell in love with farm life and food production, especially enjoying bee-keeping, food preservation & fermentation, hand-milking goats & cows, and making dairy products. Over the course of her career, she has worked as a middle school Language Arts teacher, yoga instructor, head of the kitchen for various events, and principal organizer for the Southeastern Permaculture Gathering. Carmen is passionate about promoting local farmers, educating the public about the importance of supporting local food systems, and working to instill an appreciation of ag as a vital part of a resilient community. She oversees Farm Trails operations, produces the Gravenstein Apple Fair, and is especially interested in cultivating and converging community, bridging gaps, and fulfilling Farm Trails’ mission to keep “farms forever” in Sonoma County.
About Gravenstein Apple Fair
Since 1973, Sonoma County Farm Trails has produced the Gravenstein Apple Fair as their primary annual fundraiser. Proceeds support our nonprofit’s mission to keep “farms forever” in Sonoma County. The Gravenstein Apple Fair is a beloved Sonoma County tradition celebrating the region’s rich agricultural heritage, local food culture, and community spirit. Held annually in Sebastopol, the fair showcases the iconic Gravenstein apple through farm-fresh food, artisan vendors, live music, family-friendly activities, and educational exhibits. Produced by Sonoma County Farm Trails, the event highlights the importance of supporting local farmers and preserving the agricultural traditions that make western Sonoma County unique.
About Sonoma County Farm Trails
Sonoma County Farm Trails is a nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting the community with local farms, ranches, and producers while preserving Sonoma County’s rich agricultural heritage. Founded in 1973, Farm Trails promotes direct relationships between consumers and farmers through educational programs, farm tours, events, and its popular farm guides. By supporting local agriculture and encouraging agritourism, Farm Trails helps sustain family farms, strengthen the regional food system, and celebrate the diverse agricultural landscape of Sonoma County.
And finally, Virginie and Karissa share their Tuesday Night wine picks!