Legal and Compliance

1.1. Our Commitment

Cultivated Encounters (Operating Entity of FarmFinder USA) is committed to facilitating the accessibility and usability of its website, agricultural directory, and downloadable educational resources for all users, including individuals with disabilities. We continually review and adapt our digital presence to meet or exceed modern web accessibility standards and maintain compliance with Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

1.2. Conformance Benchmark

Cultivated Encounters (Operating Entity of FarmFinder USA) is continuously working on updates to improve digital accessibility and strives toward Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.2 Level AA conformance across all platform interfaces, rather than guaranteeing absolute compliance with every line item at all times. These guidelines establish benchmarks to ensure digital interfaces are:

• Perceivable: Visual components, typography, and badges satisfy high-contrast standards (minimum 4.5:1 ratio for regular text; 3:1 for large display elements and interactive UI borders). Non-decorative imagery carries descriptive alternative text.
• Operable: All core site features—including navigation menus, magic-link login modals, and directory search filters—are fully navigable via standard keyboard inputs (Tab, Shift+Tab, Enter, Space, Escape) with visible focus indicators.
• Understandable: Page structures, layout logic, form labels, and filter instructions use plain-language terminology and predictable interaction patterns.
• Robust: HTML markup is structured to maintain compatibility across modern assistive software, including screen readers (VoiceOver, NVDA, JAWS) and braille display interfaces.

1.3. Key Measures Implemented

• Directory & Map Information Parity: For users navigating without visual cues, complete geographic and vendor data displayed on the interactive visual map (/map) is concurrently available through our fully keyboard-navigable and screen-reader accessible tabular directory view (/farms).
• Text Resizing & Responsive Reflow: Layouts adapt smoothly up to 400% zoom magnification without loss of critical listing metadata or horizontal page truncation.
• Skip Navigation: A dedicated "Skip to Main Content" mechanism allows assistive technology users to bypass repetitive navigation elements.

1.4. Known Limitations & Ongoing Roadmap

• Third-Party Interactive Mapping Tiles: Underlying third-party mapping libraries may present mechanical friction when navigating zoom/pan layers via specialized screen readers; all map pin data remains accessible via the searchable directory list.
• Third-Party External Storefronts: Outbound links direct users to independent farm websites and ordering platforms (e.g., Local Line, direct farm portals). Cultivated Encounters (Operating Entity of FarmFinder USA) cannot modify the underlying code or accessibility features of third-party domains.
• Historical Producer Submissions: Archival photography provided directly by producer listings is actively audited and updated with descriptive text alternatives on an ongoing basis.

1.5. Accessibility Assistance & Contact

If you encounter any access barrier, experience difficulty downloading materials, or require information in an alternative accessible format, please contact our team:

• Email: [email protected]
• Direct Administrative Inquiries: [email protected]
• Mailing Address: Cultivated Encounters 1620 Ludlow Road, Ludlow, ME 04730
• Accessibility Response Timeline: We strive to acknowledge and address all reported accessibility barriers or requests for assistance within 3 to 5 business days.

2.1. Intermediary Directory Role

Cultivated Encounters (Operating Entity of FarmFinder USA) operates strictly as an informational discovery directory and networking resource connecting consumers, institutional buyers, and community members with independent agricultural producers, food hubs, and rural artisans. As a program and product of Cultivated Encounters, the platform and all financial transactions or payments processed through standard site mechanisms are ultimately received and operated by Cultivated Encounters.

Unless explicitly set forth in a separate written agreement, Cultivated Encounters (Operating Entity of FarmFinder USA) does not cultivate, inspect, process, package, store, sell, warrant, or ship any agricultural goods, apothecary items, or perishable foodstuffs listed on this website. Each independent farm, ranch, hub, or commercial vendor ("Producer") operates as an autonomous third party responsible for its own regulatory compliance, licensing, product descriptions, pricing, and fulfillment.

While independent producers remain primarily responsible for their own regulatory compliance, licensing, and operations, Cultivated Encounters (Operating Entity of FarmFinder USA) conducts periodic administrative reviews and random audits of directory listings to support baseline platform quality, content accuracy, and general compliance standards.

2.2. Accuracy of Producer Content & Self-Reported Credentials

• Directory listings, agricultural descriptions, retail hours, production philosophies, and stated credentials (such as organic, non-GMO, naturally grown, state processing certifications, or USDA inspection tiers) are provided by third parties or derived from public records.
• Cultivated Encounters (Operating Entity of FarmFinder USA) does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or current standing of any Producer’s self-reported practices or government certifications. Consumers and commercial buyers are responsible for independently verifying credentials directly with Producers.

2.3. External Links & Third-Party Platforms

• Outbound Commerce: The site contains links and embedded interfaces directing users to external platforms, including independent farm e-commerce sites, third-party ordering networks (e.g., Local Line), payment processors (e.g., Stripe), and social media channels.
• Independent Contracting: Any order placement, financial transaction, product delivery, or commercial dispute occurs solely between you and that external party. Cultivated Encounters (Operating Entity of FarmFinder USA) is not a party to, nor liable for, contracts or transactions made through third-party websites.
• Third-Party Payment Processors: External payment processing services (e.g., Stripe) are provided by third parties and governed by their respective terms of service and privacy policies. Cultivated Encounters (Operating Entity of FarmFinder USA) assumes no liability or responsibility for transaction processing errors, payment delays, or security incidents occurring on external payment platforms.

2.4. Agricultural, Apothecary & Health Disclaimers

• Perishable Products: Perishable goods obtained through Producers featured on Cultivated Encounters (Operating Entity of FarmFinder USA) are purchased at the consumer’s own risk. Cultivated Encounters (Operating Entity of FarmFinder USA) disclaims liability for improper handling, storage failures, foodborne illness, allergen cross-contamination, or spoilage occurring after production or transfer.
• No Medical Advice: Certain Producer listings or educational articles may reference traditional botanicals, herbs, or apothecary goods. No statement on Cultivated Encounters (Operating Entity of FarmFinder USA) constitutes medical advice, clinical diagnosis, or prescribed treatment. Stated herbal or agricultural properties have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) unless specifically indicated. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional regarding personal medical conditions or botanical interactions.
• Reporting Improper Claims: If you encounter any listing or content making improper medical or health claims, please report it immediately to [email protected] for administrative inspection and potential removal from the platform.
• Imagery & Photography: Independent farmers and producers are requested to provide their own authentic photographs for listed products and farm profiles. In some instances, stock images or temporary placeholder photography may appear across the website. If you believe any photo is displayed on the platform in error or infringes upon your copyright, please report it to [email protected] for administrative review and prompt resolution.
• DMCA & Copyright Infringement Notice: If you believe any content or imagery hosted on the platform infringes upon your copyright, please send a formal DMCA takedown notice to [email protected] with details identifying the work and location of the alleged infringement.

2.5. Limitation of Liability

To the fullest extent permitted by law, Cultivated Encounters, Cultivated Encounters (Operating Entity of FarmFinder USA), and its principal operators disclaim liability for any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, or punitive damages—including bodily injury, illness, financial loss, or commercial disputes—arising out of directory reliance, interactions with third-party Producers, or purchases made on external platforms.

2.6. Farmer Listing & Content Guidelines

• Allowed & Required Information: Independent farmers and producers must provide accurate operational details and are required to maintain at least one valid method of contact (e.g., phone number, email address, authorized distributor details, or an active business/farm website) on their directory profile.
• Prohibited Content & Medical Claims: Producers are strictly prohibited from publishing unverified health, therapeutic, or medical claims regarding their agricultural products, apothecary goods, or botanicals. All product descriptions must conform to standard food and agricultural labelling regulations.
• Photography & Media Guidelines: Farmers and producers must provide authentic photographs of their own operations and products. If assistance with stock imagery or visual alternatives is needed, producers should reach out to [email protected] rather than using unverified photos from the internet.

2.6.1 Dispute Resolution & Binding Arbitration Clause

• Informal Resolution: Prior to initiating any formal legal action or arbitration, you agree to attempt to resolve any dispute, claim, or controversy arising out of or relating to these Terms or the platform informally by contacting [email protected].
• Binding Arbitration: If informal efforts fail to reach a resolution within thirty (30) days, any remaining claim or dispute shall be settled by binding arbitration administered in the State of Maine in accordance with the rules of the American Arbitration Association (AAA).
• Class Action Waiver: You and Cultivated Encounters agree that any proceedings to resolve or litigate any dispute will be conducted solely on an individual basis and not in a class, consolidated, or representative action.

2.6.2 User-Generated Content (UGC) Moderation Policy

• Content Ownership & License Grant: Users and producers retain ownership of all reviews, profile text, images, and content submitted to the platform, but grant Cultivated Encounters a worldwide, non-exclusive, royalty-free license to display, distribute, and format such content in connection with operating the service.
• Prohibited Submissions: Users may not post content that is unlawful, defamatory, misleading, abusive, infringing on third-party intellectual property, or containing unauthorized commercial solicitations or spam.
• Moderation & Takedown Rights: Cultivated Encounters reserves the right, but assumes no obligation, to pre-screen, monitor, review, or remove user-generated content at any time without prior notice if it violates platform standards or legal regulations.

2.6.3 Electronic Communications Consent

By creating an account, submitting a listing, or contacting Cultivated Encounters (Operating Entity of FarmFinder USA), you consent to receive communications from us electronically, including administrative emails, magic login links, security updates, and service notifications. You agree that all agreements, notices, disclosures, and other communications provided electronically satisfy any legal requirement that such communications be in writing.

2.7. Governing Law & Jurisdiction

These Terms of Service and all related platform activities shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Maine, without regard to its conflict of law principles. Any legal action or proceeding arising under these Terms shall be brought exclusively in the state or federal courts located in the State of Maine.

2.8. User & Producer Indemnification

You agree to defend, indemnify, and hold harmless Cultivated Encounters, its operators, and affiliates from and against any claims, liabilities, damages, judgments, losses, or expenses (including reasonable attorneys' fees) arising out of or in any way connected with your access to or use of the platform, your listing content, or your violation of these Terms.

2.9. Account Suspension & Termination Rights

Cultivated Encounters reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to modify, suspend, or terminate any user account, producer profile, or directory listing at any time, with or without cause or prior notice, including for violations of these Terms or suspected fraudulent or illegal activity.

2.10. User Eligibility & Age Requirements

By accessing or using the platform, you represent and warrant that you are of legal age and possess the legal capacity to enter into binding agreements. If you are accessing the platform on behalf of an organization or entity, you represent that you have full authority to bind that entity to these Terms.

2.11. Force Majeure

Cultivated Encounters (Operating Entity of FarmFinder USA) shall not be liable for any failure or delay in performance resulting from causes beyond its reasonable control, including but not limited to natural disasters, extreme weather events impacting agricultural production, utility failures, cyber incidents, internet outages, acts of God, labor disputes, or government actions.

3.1. Information We Collect

• Public Directory Listings: Information submitted by agricultural producers for public indexing, including business names, farm descriptions, operational locations (town/county), sales channels, and public business contact points.
• Member Accounts & Magic-Link Authentication: To log in, manage directory entries, or view producer dashboards, users provide an email address. We employ secure, one-time, passwordless magic links to authenticate accounts. We do not store or collect user account passwords.
• Teacher & Educator Resource Requests: To access or download classroom materials, lesson guides, and farm quest curricula, educators may be asked to provide basic professional contact information (name, institutional or school email address, and school or district affiliation).
• Billing Records: For paid memberships or sponsorship packages, payments are processed directly by third-party processors (such as Stripe). Cultivated Encounters (Operating Entity of FarmFinder USA) does not capture or store credit card numbers or financial account credentials. We retain only non-sensitive transaction records, timestamps, and active membership tier designations.
• Technical Logs: Standard server metadata (browser type, referring URLs, IP addresses, and page request counts) is retained to prevent platform abuse and assess performance.
• Cookie & Tracking Technologies Notice: We use essential cookies and basic analytics tools to maintain session state, secure magic-link logins, and analyze overall site traffic patterns. We do not sell tracking data or use cross-site behavioral advertising cookies.
• Insurance & Certification Documentation: Agricultural producers and farmers are required to submit proof of active insurance policies, organic or state certifications, and operational licenses only if they wish to display certified badges on their public profile or offer items for direct sale to the general public through the platform. Cultivated Encounters (Operating Entity of FarmFinder USA) does not verify, monitor, or guarantee valid licensing or insurance coverage for private transactions or closed marketplace sales.

3.2. Information Sharing & Safeguards

• No Data Brokering: Cultivated Encounters (Operating Entity of FarmFinder USA) never sells, rents, leases, or trades user emails, educator contact information, or producer lists to commercial data brokers or marketing firms.
• Operational Disclosures: Information is shared with third-party service providers (such as hosting networks, transactional email delivery services, geocoding/mapping software, and payment processors) strictly to deliver platform functionality.
• Public Information Boundary: Only details submitted specifically for public directory display appear in search results and map interfaces. Internal administrative notes, private addresses, and educator contact emails remain private.

3.2.1 Third-Party External Links Disclaimer

Our platform contains external links to third-party websites, external store interfaces, farm payment portals, and social media channels. Cultivated Encounters (Operating Entity of FarmFinder USA) does not control, endorse, or assume responsibility for the privacy practices, terms of service, or content of third-party external sites. Users are encouraged to review the respective policies of any third-party website they visit.

3.3. Children's Privacy Notice (COPPA & Educator Curriculum Access)

Cultivated Encounters (Operating Entity of FarmFinder USA) is a general-audience agricultural directory and professional resource designed strictly for adult producers, business owners, educators, and community members:

• No Child-Directed Services: The website and its interactive member portals are not directed to, marketed to, or intended for use by children under 13 years of age. We do not knowingly solicit, collect, or store personal information directly from children under 13.
• Educator-Curated Materials: All downloadable printables, quest packets, and agricultural literacy curricula available on Cultivated Encounters (Operating Entity of FarmFinder USA) are provided solely to adult educators, teachers, and parents/guardians for adult-facilitated instruction.
• No Student Accounts: Students and minors do not create accounts, log into portals, or submit personal records to Cultivated Encounters (Operating Entity of FarmFinder USA). If we discover that personal identifying information of a minor under 13 has been submitted through any site form, we take immediate steps to delete that data from our records.

3.4. Your Rights & Data Choices

Under applicable state privacy legislation, you have the right to:

• Review or obtain a copy of the private contact details associated with your account or directory entry.
• Correct or update farm listing details via your verified member portal or by contacting site administration.
• Request the complete removal of your profile, educator submission, or farm listing from our active databases.
• Data Retention & Deletion Timeline: Active account data and directory listings are retained for as long as the listing remains published or active. Upon receipt of a formal deletion request sent to [email protected], account details and producer listings will be removed from our active operational databases within thirty (30) business days. However, sales and transaction records associated with online sales or paid memberships must be retained for seven (7) years to satisfy tax, legal, and compliance obligations, and cannot be deleted prior to that timeframe.

Privacy Inquiries: [email protected]

Data Controller: Cultivated Encounters (Operating Entity of FarmFinder USA), Ludlow, ME

3.5. Modification of Terms

Cultivated Encounters (Operating Entity of FarmFinder USA) reserves the right to update or modify these terms and documentation bundle at any time. Regulatory and policy compliance is reviewed on a quarterly basis to align with evolving legal and operational standards. Continued use of the platform following any modifications constitutes acceptance of the revised terms.

3.6. Intellectual Property & Trademark Notice

All branding, logos, service marks, website layout designs, software interface elements, and custom content created by Cultivated Encounters (Operating Entity of FarmFinder USA) are the exclusive intellectual property of Cultivated Encounters and are protected under copyright, trademark, and proprietary rights laws. Unauthorized reproduction, modification, or redistribution of these assets without prior written consent is strictly prohibited.

3.7. Security Breach Notification Policy

In the event of a confirmed security breach involving personal data or account security credentials, Cultivated Encounters (Operating Entity of FarmFinder USA) will notify affected users and regulatory authorities in full compliance with applicable state data security and privacy notification laws without unreasonable delay.

3.8. Accessibility Review Cadence

To maintain continuous alignment with WCAG 2.2 Level AA conformance and ADA Title III standards, Cultivated Encounters conducts regular quarterly accessibility audits across all web components, directory structures, and downloadable assets.