If any aspect of your community’s history is interwoven with the textile industry, you might be able to play a part in bringing it back. Not as in the days of old (with pollution, worker exploitation, and more), but in a new, sustainable way which would benefit farmers, ranchers, workers, designers, consumers, and the environment.
The “Fibershed” initiative which started in California nine years ago has now spread to 28 regions in the US. The goal is to connect all of the providers in the textile chain and create small networks — typically 150 square miles — which then connect with each other, and so on.
Curious? Here’s a list of the current Fibershed groups. If you don’t see one near you, touch base with the “mother ship” and let them know you want to get involved.
The concept is exciting; the challenge is huge. It’s worth the effort.
List of current Fibershed groups
How to help: You can join Fibershed as a producer or a supporter. A small donation will go far!
[Note: Photo credit pending. Image borrowed from the main Fibershed site. Thanks for your beautiful images.]