Fairmont Takes Their Farm To Table Credo To a Whole New Level – The Classroom

The Fairmont San Francisco and The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn will purchase two student- raised hogs from the Sonoma Valley High School Agriculture Department.  As a means to connect guest to locally sourced items and further support the brand's CARE* (Community Assistance and Responsibility to the Environment) programming the student- raised hogs will be proudly served in the hotels' signature restaurants, cafes and employee cafeterias.

Danny Aschwanden, Agriculture Advisor, Sonoma Valley High School adds, "This time of student/business partnership is critical to the program's viability. Dedicated community partners ensure that these types of animal projects continue despite state cut-backs. Our students take great pride in animal health, which is maintained with wholesome food, adequate shelter, access to the outdoors and preventive health plans."

Chef jW Foster of the Fairmont San Francisco states, "We believe that the heart of sustainable agriculture is in the integrity of the farmer - these types of programs teach tomorrow's leaders via hands-on applied teaching experiences.  Sustainability as a culinary theme is paramount in our kitchens. We are continually seeking out locally sourced proteins and produce, supporting local economies and reducing food miles, this partnership with Sonoma Valley High School is a win-win."

Michelle Heston, Fairmont spokesperson shares, "The hallmark of this partnership will be student involvement and collaborative community planning.  Our goal is to provide financial support for infrastructure improvements followed by a collaborative business agreement in which the High School Farm will become a source of animal products and locally grown plants for both The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn and The Fairmont San Francisco. By supporting Sonoma Valley High School and the area's primary business (agriculture/wine grape growers) we hope to truly elevate the importance of buying local and supporting the community."

The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn will further support the High School's "Ag" Department initiatives and programming by hosting a series of fundraising events including a signature Winemaker Dinner scheduled with like community-minded Bruce Cohn of B.R. Cohn Winery on January 26, 2012 at the Inn's Michelin starred Santé dining room. Locals and guests alike can also support the SVHS Ag Program by dining at the iconic Big 3. 10% of the total check will support fund-raising goals every Monday evening during the months of February and March 2012. For more information on the January 26, 2012, Winemaker Dinner or Big 3 Agricultural Program nights please phone the Inn at 707 938 9000.

*CARE is a corporate grant program that focuses on the environmental, social, and community well being of the communities where Fairmont does business.

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is committed to environmental protection and sustainability guided by our very own Green Partnership Program. The Partnership, a company-wide stewardship program, strives to minimize our properties' operational impact on the environment through resource conservation and best practices.