Enid Wonnacott
8/29/61–1/19/19
Enid started working for NOFA-VT in 1988. Over her 31 years leading NOFA, it grew from 250 household members and 57 certified organic producers in 1990 to over 1,100 household members and 724 certified organic producers in 2018. She helped form the current structure including a 12-member board of which 50% are practicing farmers. By hiring talented staff and successfully obtaining funding, she has expanded NOFA to include multiple programs including organic certification, farmer services, agricultural education, and promotion of direct markets.
Because Enid was a respected leader, she was able to bring together people from different perspectives to move the organic movement forward. During the forming of the National Organic Program, she helped to craft a program that worked for both Vermont scale farms and much bigger farms across the country. Enid also worked locally, representing organic farmers at the statehouse to pass important legislation and bring awareness to and obtain funding for a variety of issues.
While having farmers obtain organic certification is the ultimate goal along the continuum of farming at NOFA-VT, Enid continually supported inclusivity. Certified organic farmers, farmers using some organic methods, and conventional farmers are all welcomed to learn together through round table discussions, on-farm workshops, and at the annual Winter Conference attended by over 1,000 farmers and gardeners.
Enid was instrumental in developing NOFA’s Farm Share Program to help make organic foods more accessible to low-income families through the Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) model. Through this program, the recipient’s share is supported by other community CSA members, restaurants through an annual fundraiser, and corporate and individual donors.
As a true visionary, Enid recognized needs and took risks to develop programs such as the farm to school program before they were of national interest. This program connects children to farms through education and meals, as well as provides a market opportunity for farmers. Vermont is now seen as a leader in this movement.
Enid was a beloved coach, friend, parent to Lila and Eli, and wife to Harry Frank. She is remembered by all who knew her for her ready laughter, singing, and generous bear hugs. Read more about Enid's life here.
We love you, Enid.
Learn about the Enid Fund for NOFA-VT »