The Maine Art Gallery will host "Farming in Maine," a public panel discussion exploring sustainable agriculture, local food systems, and the thriving farm-to-table movement in Maine on Thursday, May 21, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. This timely conversation ties beautifully into the gallery’s current exhibition, Art to Table: Visual Sustenance, which explores the deep connections between food, culture, community, memory, and our relationship to one another through the lens of art. Veggies to Table is honored to be included in this meaningful discussion alongside fellow leaders working to strengthen Maine’s agricultural future, and to share how nourishing communities through fresh food, flowers, education, and connection can help cultivate both health and belonging.

Bringing together leaders from across Maine’s agricultural and food communities, the panel will highlight the importance of preserving farmland, supporting local growers, strengthening access to healthy food for all Mainers, and building a more resilient food future for Maine communities.

Representatives from three organizations and businesses that have helped shape Maine’s sustainable farming landscape will share their histories, missions, and visions for the future.

Erica Berman, executive director and co-founder of Veggies to Table, a nonprofit farm in Newcastle, Maine, will speak about the organization’s mission to grow and donate organic produce and flowers for community members experiencing hunger and in need of joy across Lincoln County. Berman will discuss the farm’s founding and its impact over the last seven seasons, during which Veggies to Table has donated more than 95,000 pounds of organic produce and over 153,700 flowers to more than 35 local organizations and families.

“Access to beautiful, nourishing food should never depend on income,” said Berman. “At Veggies to Table, we believe everyone deserves the same quality produce and flowers you might find at a farmers' market or in a fine restaurant. This work is about nourishment, dignity, community, and joy.”

Also joining the panel is Toby Tarpinian of Morning Glory Natural Foods, who will speak about supporting Maine’s local food economy and organic growers.

Anna Fiedler of Maine Farmland Trust will discuss farmland preservation efforts in Maine, including the preservation of The Commons at Morris Farm in Wiscasset. She will be joined by Ryan Esberg, one of the farm’s new owners, who will share his family’s vision for the farm’s future.

“We are honored to be part of this conversation alongside organizations and businesses helping shape Maine’s agricultural future and strengthen local food systems,” said Berman. “This work is deeply interconnected—from protecting farmland, to supporting local growers, to ensuring fresh, organic produce reaches neighbors experiencing hunger. We are grateful to share our story and help highlight the power of community-centered farming in Maine.”

A reception featuring refreshments provided by Morning Glory Natural Foods will follow the panel discussion. The event is free and open to the public.