Building Local Food Systems
What is a local food system?
A local food system is what it sounds like: crops and other goods that are grown and raised in one area, whether that is a city, county, or region. There are so many benefits to a local food system such as economic growth and stability as well as increased food access. The resources below can help you and your community start building or continue to grow one in your area.
General resources
Growing a Local Food Economy A Guide to Getting Started -- produced by Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project (ASAP)
Why we like this: 11 pages with step-by-step guidance. We appreciate the attention to detail and the supportive language this resource provides.
How to Start a Farm Stop: A Pattern Language for Local Food Systems by Kathryn Barr
How to Build a Strong Local Food System by Katherine Martinko
Farm to Table: Building Local and Regional Food Systems -- SARE Outreach
Why we like this: This resource includes solid steps and helpful handouts that can guide you forward in a really specific way.
Building Local and Regional Food Systems -- University of Illinois Extension
Local Food Systems: Clarifying Current Research -- NC State Extension