…look like local mammals! Scientists and farmers are working together to see if Orca beans grow as well in Whatcom County as Orca whales do. Credit: using-beans-for-winter-use.html Credit: Some local beans…

Beans belong in the legume family. Most beans are either shell beans or snap beans. In summer we can harvest the “snap beans” (like green beans and pea pods) fresh off the vine, eating the pea and the pod all together. Then there are “shell beans” which we harvest once the pod turns brown & dry and the beans are hard. These beans come in many beautiful types and colors and need to be cooked to eat. Credit: Credit: e-to-play-outside.html

What makes beans so yummy? Protein and fiber! Beans are known for giving us a LOT of energy. The protein in beans is similar to the protein in meat, but with beans you get extra fiber and the antioxidents called phytochemicals that only grow in plant-based foods. Look! You can eat a rainbow of beans ! Credit:

Kids all over Whatcom County are enjoying dried beans for Harvest of the Month. These kids are holding dried beans at the Blaine Farmers’ Market, June 2013! Photo credit: Mardi Solomon Don’t forget to thank your server!