September is Oregon Cheese Month so there’s no better time thank this to discover farmstead and artisan cheeses of the region. Taking the locavore movement a step further, become a “cheesavore” by learning about a few of the approximately 250 types of cheese created in the state, and getting to know the people who make it—including makers in the growing Idaho scene. Using science and artistry, some of the more than 20 artisan cheesemakers in Oregon are accessible with tours or on-site visits.

Visit Rogue Creamery in Central Point and see where it has been making cheese by hand since 1935. The glass viewing areas at Face Rock Creamery in Bandon allow visitors to watch how its cheeses, including the popular Vampire Slayer garlic cheese curds, are made.

At Briar Rose Creamery in Dundee, Sarah Marcus makes wheels into works of art and welcomes visitors Fridays, Saturdays and by appointment. Sustainability is accessible at TMK Creamery + Distillery, one of the only dairy farms in the United States open to the public. Visit TMK on Friday afternoons and weekends.

Find samples from across the state on September 28 in Portland at The Wedge, a farmers market-style festival celebrating cheese and the foods that go with it. See oregoncheeseguild.com.