The views surrounding Bend don't exactly conjure notions of traditional farmland. Snowy mountains frame open vistas dotted with gnarled juniper trees and sagebrush. By day, the landscape is blanketed under a blazing sun, while cold nights bring relief beneath bright stars. Despite these extremes, agriculture thrives, thanks to the hard work of dedicated farmers and ranchers. Irrigated fields support bountiful crops at Fields Farm and Mahonia Gardens. Farmers' markets, most notably at NorthWest Crossing, bustle with people buying local produce, dairy, eggs, meat and honey. Visit places like the Great American Egg to learn about the business of raising chickens and Jackson's Corner for a delicious sample of what eating local tastes like. Author Sara Rishforth goes behind the scenes to present the story of the local farm-to-table movement.

The Busy Birds Adventures: Hello, Bend! is a bright, cheerful, and engaging board book to help introduce the beauty of the nature that surrounds us in Central Oregon. Throughout this book, a friendly little bird says "hello!" to the mountains, the buttes, and even the Deschutes! It is designed for babies to be able to hold and enjoy whether they are snuggled up in bed or out exploring the outdoors!