Genuine Skagit Valley products shipped around the country

In 2013, Washington state designated Skagit Valley as an Innovation Partnership Zone to enhance awareness of this unique agricultural community. One result of this designation was the creation of Genuine Skagit Valley, an organization whose mission is to increase consumer awareness and consumption of Skagit Valley agricultural-related products and services. 

EDASC was among the stakeholders that helped in its formation. 

To further Genuine Skagit Valley’s mission, EDASC CEO John Sternlicht connected its marketing director Blake Vanfield with the folks at Made in Washington. The result was a Genuine Skagit Valley Savor Skagit gift box for holiday giving featured on Made in Washington’s website, which reaches a national audience.  

"Through this valuable partnership, a distinctive collection of Skagit-grown and made artisan foods are being purchased and shipped across the country,” Vanfield said. “It's a program that fosters direct economic benefit for our agricultural sector in addition to increasing recognition of the Skagit Valley as a renowned agricultural region." 

The connections don’t stop there, Vanfield said. While hosting a booth at EDASC’s 50th Anniversary Celebration, she was able to connect with Jill Rohrs, owner of Skagit’s Best Salsa. “We began the process to help source local producers for her product,” Vanfield said. “That is what my job is all about, and it's so rewarding to encourage food producers to utilize locally grown products via the Genuine Skagit Valley certification mark and membership.” 

The Genuine Skagit Valley certification mark is available for all Genuine Skagit Valley members to use when promoting their products. The branding provides visible recognition for Skagit Valley agricultural and value-added ag products. 

To learn more about the organization, it’s programs or how to become a member, contact Vanfield at info@genuineskagitvalley.com or 360-395-2841.