Birch’s journey began in Metcalfe County, where he grew up close to the land and the people who work it. His love for food and farming led him into both worlds, first as a farmer and later as a restaurant and food hub owner. Today, he co-owns Locals Food Hub and Pizza, with one location in Louisville and another in Frankfort.
Locals is more than a restaurant; it is a model of what a community-led food system can look like. With locally sourced cheese, vegetables, and meats, plus a small grocery that features Kentucky producers, Birch has built a business that keeps farmers at the center.But his work has also shown him the challenge: despite their essential role, farmers often lack the platform or power to influence the decisions that affect their livelihoods. Communities want to support local food, but without strong farmer leadership, the systems around them aren’t built to last.
Through his deepening involvement with CFA, Birch saw how farmers’ voices could be lifted in meaningful, respectful ways. Birch was able to share his experiences directly—at meetings, in advocacy efforts, and through community storytelling. He also worked with CFA and Kentucky Double Dollars to bring a SNAP Triple Match program to Locals, funded by local business partners. For Birch, this was more than a program; it was a way to align his values with tangible action, making fresh, local food accessible to more families.
Birch’s experience demonstrates how leadership grows when farmers are supported, trusted, and connected. His work stands as proof that when farmers have a platform, communities strengthen, local economies thrive, and real change grows from the ground up.