If you’ve read Mother Earth News over the years, you probably didn’t automatically equate it with the business world.
Yet, the national publication, which bills itself as “The Original Guide To Living Wisely,” could help business in Viroqua in Vernon County and the surrounding area in Western Wisconsin.
Viroqua is one of nine small municipalities to be listed on Mother Earth News’ third annual “Great Places You’ve Never Heard Of” list, which will be published in its August/September edition that hits news stands this week.
The information about Viroqua was written by author Dave Wann and touts Viroqua’s support of local, organic farms. The article also cites Viroqua’s efforts as a Main Street city to keep its downtown moving in a positive direction. Viroqua’s Food Co-op was cited as another of its strengths.
Of course, these various lists of best places always are somewhat enigmatic, in how they are selected or what criteria is used in selections.
Viroqua, however, can benefit from this designation. Many in the community and surrounding countryside have gone out of their way to carve out alternative, sustainable lifestyles.
Alternative schools have existed in the area for quite some time. Home schooling is somewhat prevalent.
Organic farming has become one of the backbones of the agribusiness field in the area. Organic Valley just celebrated its 20th anniversary with the annual Kickapoo Valley Fair this past weekend.
Cooperatives in general are strong in the area. Many are also starting to work with alternative energy such as wind, solar and bio-fuels.
Artisans and other so-called “craft” or “niche” businesses — ranging from organic ice cream to customized furniture making — have been started in the area.
Although Viroqua received the Mother Earth designation, these elements can be found in pockets around Western Wisconsin.
Mainstream businesses do exist and, in fact, thrive in Viroqua and the area. They have done so in relative concert with the alternative, niche businesses.
Some people in the so-called niches already have been coming to the area for quite some time to put their kids in the alternative schools, to become involved in organic farming or even just so they can eat organic, what they consider healthier food.
The designation by Mother Earth News should help more people involved in these niche groups around the country “hear” and learn about Viroqua and the surrounding area. Some will undoubtedly only come to visit and patronize the existing local businesses. Others might actually come to relocate and develop their own niche businesses.
If they are accepted with open arms, and more or less invited into the community, they should add energy and resources to the local economy.
Other cities making this year’s Mother Earth list are: Ames, Iowa; Berea, Ky.; Bethel, Maine; Bisbee, Ariz.; Greenbelt, Md.; Moscow, Idaho; San Luis Obispo, Calif.; and Traverse City, Mich.
Launched in 1970, Mother Earth’s bimonthly issues feature information to save money, cut energy costs, use renewable energy, garden organically and build green homes.
At one time, many involved in business might have considered Mother Earth “out there”, a publication for old-hippies and definitely not fitting with the business world.
But, as the public hears more, and has to live with, high energy costs, expensive health care, tainted food sources, environmental denigration, etc., Mother Earth’s approach has appealed to more people and has become considered “good business“, especially for small businesses.
So, those in Viroqua and that area of Western Wisconsin should be thankful for the designation — and do everything possible to continue to live up to it.
