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Buying & Selling Local Foods
National
Selling Strategies for Local Food Producers Bill McKelvey, Mary Hendrickson, Joe ParcellFri, Jan 11th, 2008
DownloadFood Safety Information and Resources for Producers Community Food Security Coalition
Fri, Sep 14th, 2012
This body of resources was originally developed by the Community Food Security Coalition
Guide to Developing a Sustainable Food Purchasing Policy Matthew Buck
Thu, Nov 1st, 2007
The guide is intended to help universities, colleges, hospitals, and other institutions - as well as those advocating for food system change - create, promote and implement practical sustainable food purchasing policies.
Fresh from the Farm: Using Local Foods in Afterschool and Summer Nutrition Programs FRAC
Fri, Jul 1st, 2011
Food is an important part of any quality afterschool or summer program. It helps attract children to the program and ensures that they have the energy to fully participate in all of the educational and enrichment activities. The nutrition quality and appeal of the meals and snacks is crucial. One creative strategy to improve quality and appeal is to make local produce part of the meals and snacks, and Farm to School programs are one key strategy to do that. This guide outlines strategies and approaches for accessing local products such as working with an organization that is already using local produce, collaborating with the area food service director or operating the Farm to School program independently.
DownloadLocal Food for Local Governments: Considerations in Giving Preference to Locally Grown Food Public Health Law and Policy (PHLP)
Sun, Jan 1st, 2012
This guide provides an overview of the factors affecting whether a state or local agency may procure locally produced food and agricultural products.
HCFS Food System Tools Healthy Community Food Systems
Fri, Feb 1st, 2013
A set of 15 Tool booklets so far on various aspects of community food systems that impact farm to school. Topics include buying local, climate and wildlife-friendly food systems, native farming, extending the local food system, food safety and more. All are free online.
School Garden Q&As United States Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service
Wed, Jul 29th, 2009
In this memo, USDA recently clarified that school food service funds may be used to purchase seeds, gardening tools, fertilizer, etc for school gardens. Such funds may also be devoted to starting and maintaining gardens on school property and schools are allowed to purchase produce from the gardens, even if the garden is managed and maintained by another school organization.
USDA Food & Nutrition Services - Regulations & Policy USDA Food & Nutrition Services
Wed, Jan 20th, 2010
USDA Geographic Preference Memo Cynthia Long, Director Child Nutrition Division
Tue, Feb 1st, 2011
In light of recent Farm to School efforts to connect schools with local or regional farmers and the need for guidance and technical assistance on the State and local levels, we have created Q&As to further explain the geographic preference option. The purpose of this memorandum is to provide Q&As on the application of the geographic preference option in procurement of unprocessed locally grown or locally raised agricultural products.
DownloadHow to Apply Geographic Preference
Tue, Mar 15th, 2011
On February 1st, 2011 USDA released a memo, SP_18-2011, that offers a Question and Answer format on how a geographic preference may be applied. This document contains highlights and major points from the memo.
DownloadGeographic Preference Final Rule Summary
Wed, May 4th, 2011
DownloadTogether at the Table Sue B. Balcom - FARRMS from information provided by the Department of Public Instruction and the Ent
Wed, Aug 10th, 2011
A checklist for food service providers and producers. Questions to ask to begin relationships around local foods in schools or cafeterias.
DownloadFood Safety and Liability Insurance: Emerging Issues for Farmers and Institutions Kristen Markley, Marion Kalb, and Loren Gustafson
Wed, Dec 1st, 2010
This report is a compilation of a year-long project to study food safety and liability insurance issues and offer recommendations that emphasize proactive and cooperative attention. If you are a cooperative extension educator, agricultural professional, non-profit staff member, institutional food service provider, or producer involved in the institutional produce market, this report will help you better understand the history of these issues, the challenges for small or limited resource producers, and options for addressing these challenges.
DownloadNuevos Mercados Para Su Cosecha (New Ways to Sell What You Grow) Community Food Security Coalition and the National Center for Appropriate Technology
Sun, Jul 1st, 2007
This Spanish-language publication details strategies for farmers interested in marketing their products to local institutions such as schools, colleges, hospitals, retirement homes and day care centers. Included is a resource list of organizations around the country that work with Latino farmers looking for ways to market their products.
DownloadArkansas
Local Produce Procurement Guidance for School Meals Programs in Arkansas Andrew CarberryWed, Aug 1st, 2012
This document walks Child Nutrition Directors through the rules and regulations related to purchasing local produce and which agency has regulatory authority at each step. This information was compiled through a collaboration between the Arkansas Grow Healthy Study, Arkansas Department of Education, Arkansas Agriculture Department, and the Arkansas Department of Health.
DownloadCalifornia
Fresh Food Distribution Models for the Greater Los Angeles Region: Barriers and Opportunities to Fac Vanessa ZajfenSat, Mar 1st, 2008
The Center for Food & Justice has released the findings from a year-long planning grant titled Fresh Food Distribution Models for the Greater Los Angeles Region: Barriers and Opportunities to Facilitate and Scale Up the Distribution of Fresh Fruits and Vegetables. The California Endowment funded CFJ for a year long planning grant to explore the most effective strategies and opportunities to scale up the distribution of locally grown fruits and vegetables in Southern California. Our work sought to identify solutions to barriers that have prevented more institutions from buying local and supporting local agriculture. Based on the project findings CFJ has developed multiple strategies to overcome identified barriers that will be undertaken by CFJ over the coming years.
DownloadDistrict of Columbia
A Guide to Purchasing and Serving Local Foods in Schools DC Farm to School NetworkSun, Mar 18th, 2012
Designed to help schools and food service providers find cost-effective ways to serve healthy, local foods in school meals, this guide suggests ways to incorporate local foods into the school cafeteria by offering menu planning tips, seasonal recipes, and mechanisms for purchasing food locally. An excellent document to learn the nuts and bolts of integrating local food into school meals.
DC Farm to School Directory DC Farm to School Network
Tue, May 1st, 2012
Schools want farm-fresh, local food to serve in their school meals, and growers want a steady, reliable market for their products. We created the DC Farm to School directory to help them connect! This directory provides the basic information to help farms and schools develop economic relationships that work for both sides, and to create educational opportunities for students.
DownloadGeorgia
Georgia Organics Local Food GuideThu, Dec 1st, -0001
Download our popular local food guide for a listing of farms, markets and businesses supporting sustainable foods and farms in Georgia. Great place to find a farmer for a school field trip!
Illinois
Farm DirectThu, Dec 1st, -0001
Farm Direct features 600 growers and processors and 200 farmers markets who sell directly to consumers. While we have done our best to include all the producers and processors that meet the criteria, we've probably overlooked someone. If you are, or know of, such a person, please contact us at 217-244-8160 or asap@uiuc.edu. If the farm meets the criteria, we'll include you in the online directory and in next year's print directory.
Farmer Toolkit Northwestern MSLOC
Fri, Sep 9th, 2011
Direct Farm Business Regulation Outline and Farm-to-School FAQs
DownloadIowa
Local Food Connections: Food Service Considerations Iowa State University ExtensionWed, Nov 30th, -0001
This publication provides farmers, school administrators, and institutional food-service planners with contact information and descriptions of existing programs that have made these connections between local farmers and local school lunchrooms, college dining halls, or cafeterias in other institutions. To help communities initiate similar programs, this publication includes resource lists
Revealing the Secrets of an all Iowa Meal Gary Huber and Andrea Woldridge
Mon, Mar 1st, 2004
A Case Study of the Local Food Brokering Project, Practical Farmers of Iowa. Funded by the Initiative for Future Agriculture and Food Systems Program, USDA.
Massachusetts
Public Schools that Purchased Locally Grown in 2010-11Thu, Dec 1st, -0001
Here is a list of Masssachusetts public schools that purchased food from local farms in the 2010-2011 school year.
DownloadMass. Colleges and Private Schools That Purchased Locally Grown Foods in 2010-11
Thu, Dec 1st, -0001
For farmers looking to find schools that will purchase locally grown food, this is a list of colleges and private schools in Massachusetts that purchased food from local farms in the 2010-2011 school year.
DownloadMassachusetts Farms Directory for Institutional Food Services
Thu, Dec 1st, -0001
This is a directory of farms listed by county that are interested in selling food to schools and institutions. The list includes locations, contact information and which products the farms are looking to sell.
DownloadMinnesota
Minnesota School Food Survey Sam HurstFri, Mar 13th, 2009
Last fall, JoAnne Berkenkamp from the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy teamed up with the Minnesota School Nutrition Association to survey school food-service directors about their interest in direct farm-to-school marketing. Sixty-nine Minnesota school districts responded. They were overwhelmingly enthusiastic, but also cautious.
Minnesota Grown Wholesaler Database
Thu, Dec 1st, -0001
This database from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture lists Minnesota producers who sell to wholesale customers like schools, retailers and restaurants. Searchable by product, zip code, liability insurance and other criteria.
Frozen Local: Strategies for Freezing Locally Grown Produce for the K-12 Marketplace Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy (IATP)
Tue, Dec 11th, 2012
In this report, IATP explores several potential avenues for freezing locally and regionally grown produce on a small-to-medium scale for the K-12 marketplace: schools freezing on-site in their own kitchen facilities; mobile freezing units; commercial kitchens and small freezing enterprises; and co-pack relationships with existing freezing companies that could potentially serve the K-12 market.
Mississippi
Farm to School in Mississippi: A Step-by-Step Guide to Purchasing Mississippi Products Ona Balkus, Emily Broad Leib & Nathan RosenbergMon, Oct 1st, 2012
“Farm to School in Mississippi: A Step-by-Step Guide to Purchasing Mississippi Products" outlines the important steps Mississippi schools can take to start purchasing locally grown products from Mississippi farmers while complying with state and federal regulations on school food procurement.
DownloadMontana
Grow, Eat, and Know: A Resource Guide to Food and Farming in Missoula County Community Food & Agriculture CoalitionMon, Dec 1st, 2003
As one component of the Missoula County Community Food Assessment, this guide is a collection of organizations, programs and businesses that are involved in the Missoula County food system--the complex web that incorporates all things food, from growing to distribution to eating.
Within the pages of the guide, you will find brief descriptions and contact information for a variety of groups. You'll find entries for agriculture and food assistance groups, but also for land trusts and business development. All these groups play an important part in supporting the Missoula County food system.
DownloadOur Foodshed in Focus: Missoula County Food and Agriculture by the Numbers
Wed, Nov 30th, -0001
As one of our components of the MCCFA, this report utilizes existing statistical data, primarily from U.S. census reports and other government sources, to describe patterns in the local food system and how these have changed over time. Seven chapters, all authored by students, detail relevant trends in the following areas: demographics; agricultural production; environment; food distribution; employment in farming and food-related businesses; consumption; and food security and access. Each chapter also discusses why these trends might be occurring and explains why these measures are important.
Food Matters: Farm Viability and Food Consumption in Missoula County Community Food & Agriculture Coalition
Mon, Nov 1st, 2004
DownloadNew Jersey
NJ Seasonality Chart NJ Farm To School Network, NJDA Farm To School Program, NJDA Div. Marketing & Development, NJ FarmSun, Jan 1st, 2012
Stay up to date on what’s local in our region. In order to better assist you in planning out your food purchases, we are making available a seasonality chart. Click on the image below to download a copy (see link), or fill out the form on our website to request a postcard version by mail.
DownloadUSDA Procurement Policies Q&A
Fri, May 14th, 2010
USDA Food & Nutrition Service Commodity Program
Wed, Oct 7th, 2009
North Carolina
North Carolina Farm FreshWed, Nov 30th, -0001
North Carolina Farm Fresh: North Carolina Farm Fresh is a directory of pick-your-own farms, roadside farm markets, and farmers markets throughout North Carolina. It is designed to help consumers find the freshest locally grown fruits, vegetables, and herbs.
Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project Website
Wed, Nov 30th, -0001
Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project (ASAP) is a non-profit organization that supports farmers and rural communities in the mountains of western North Carolina and the southern Appalachians by providing education, mentoring, promotion, web resources, and community and policy development. Our mission is to create and expand regional community-based and integrated food systems that are locally owned and controlled, environmentally sound, economically viable and health-promoting. Our vision is a future food system throughout the mountains of North Carolina and the southern Appalachians that provides a safe and nutritious food supply for all segments of society; that is produced, marketed and distributed in a manner that enhances human and environmental health; and that adds economic and social value to rural and urban communities.
Ohio
Ohio Seasonal Availability Chart for Produce Ohio ProudThu, Dec 1st, -0001
DownloadOklahoma
The Oklahoma Food Connection 2006: A Directory of Agricultural Producers, Crops, and Institutional B Shawn CampbellThu, Dec 1st, -0001
The backbone of Oklahoma's rich heritage has always been the family farm, but due to consolidation and depressed prices, today's family farms are disappearing at an alarming rate. On October 16th, 2001, a group of Oklahomans charged by Oklahoma's Commissioner of Agriculture set out to reverse the course of this epidemic. Citing an opportunity to benefit Oklahoma farmers by opening new markets, the Oklahoma Food Policy Council was formed. The council is a joint project of the Kerr Center for Sustainable Agriculture and the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food, and Forestry.
Farm to School Tips, Tools & Guidelines for Food Distribution & Food Safety Chris Kirby, Rodney Holcomb, Lynn Brandenberger, William McGlynn & Anh Vo
Thu, Jan 21st, 2010
Since Farm to School is not a one size fits all program, this manual was developed from surveys, research & experience to include tip & tools for successful Farm to School Distribution and simple food safety protocol to follow for farms, schools and school gardens. Two new downloadable calculators have been developed. Distribution Cost Calculator will help producers understand the true costs of produce delivery and assist in determining a farm gate value for their crops and Produce Calculator which will help farmers and schools determine the amount of produce needed for the schools based on number of servings and will also calculate the per serving cost. For a hard copy of the manual, please contact Chris Kirby, chris.kirby@oda.state.ok.us
Oregon
Northeast Oregon Food and Farm GuideThu, Jul 29th, 2010
Northeast Oregon is home to a bounty of produce. With our online Food and Farm Guide you can find the information you need about local producers in Baker, Union and Wallowa Counties.
Pennsylvania
The New Farm: Farm to Farm Know How New FarmWed, Nov 30th, -0001
The New Farm: Farm to Farm Know How from the Rodale Institute provides access to a database of farms as part of a farm locator program. Specify your needs and the program will generate a list of farms that might be able to help you meet these needs. Access this link by clicking here. Or access information about farm to school programs through the New Farms site by clicking here.
Pennsylvania Agricultural Map: Promoting Pennsylvania Agriculture
Wed, Nov 30th, -0001
Ag Map: Pennsylvania’s Online Agricultural Directory.
Tennessee
Local Table Marne Duke and Lisa ShivelyThu, Dec 1st, -0001
A guide to food and farming in Middle Tennessee (A quartlery magazine format)
Washington
The Green Book Leslie Zenz, Kelli Sanger and David WidesSun, Jan 1st, 2006
This publication contains information about the regulatory landscape governing the sales of farm products in Washington State. It is a comprehensive guide to direct marketing strategies and contains an extensive resource section of organizations and relevant publications.
DownloadSmall Farm and Direct Marketing Program Website The Washington State Department of Agriculture
Wed, Nov 30th, 2005
The Washington State Department of Agriculture Small Farm and Direct Marketing Program offers technical assistance to farmers and institutional buyers in farm to cafeteria programs. Their website serves as an important farm to school resource. Washington State Office of State Procurement Department of General Administration
Mon, Jan 1st, 2007
The Department of General Administration develops and administers contracts for goods and services on behalf of state agencies, colleges, universities, select non-profit organizations, and local governments.
A School’s Guide to Purchasing Washington-Grown Food Washington State Department of Agriculture
Sat, Sep 1st, 2012
There are a range of policies and procedures on the district, local, state and federal levels that affect school food purchases of locally-grown foods. Washington State Department of Agriculture, Washington Sustainable Food & Farming Network and Washington Environmental Council partnered to develop this guide to clarify today’s rules about how to apply a geographic preference in school food purchases and provide a step-by-step guide to help school districts in Washington state increase their use of Washington-grown food in accordance with rules and regulations at all levels of government.
Wisconsin
The Madison Area Community Supported Agriculture CoalitionSun, Jan 1st, 2012
Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) farms provide fresh produce and other foods to conscientious eaters all over southern Wisconsin. On this website, find a map and listings of more than 40 CSA farms. The MACSAC website also includes information on their Partner Shares Program that facilitates low- income households’ memberships in CSA farms, and ordering information for their popular cookbook: From Asparagus to Zucchini: A Guide to Cooking Farm-Fresh, Seasonal Produce.
Dane County Farmers Market
Wed, Feb 1st, 2012
Downtown Madison has had one of the largest farmers’ markets in the U.S. since 1972. Check here for market history and lists of vendors and products. The market is year-round, located in Monona Terrace or the Madison Senior Center in the winter. Purchase food for a locally grown classroom snack and meet the farmer who grew it.
Southern Wisconsin Farm Fresh Atlas REAP Food Group
Sun, Jan 1st, 2012
This atlas produced by REAP Food Group lists farms and food-related businesses that sell their goods directly to customers in southern Wisconsin and enables you to narrow your search by far, location, and product.
Joint Memorandum in Support of Farm to School Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction
Wed, Sep 1st, 2010
The Department of Public Instruction, the Department of Health Services, and the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection issued a joint memorandum in support of Wisconsin Farm to School efforts in September 2010. The memorandum provides an overview of legislation and safety regulations.
Toolkit for School Nutrition Directors Center for Integrated Agricultural Systems
Sun, Jan 1st, 2012
The toolkit for nutrition directors includes information on seasonally available produce, sourcing and purchasing local foods; incorporating local foods into meal programs; promoting your farm to school program; and educating students. The toolkit also includes guidance for evaluating your program.
Case Studies & Feasibility Analysis
National
Going Local: Paths to Success for Farm to School Programs Anupama Joshi, Marion Kalb and Moira BeeryThu, Feb 1st, 2007
A brand new resource from the National Farm to School Program, Center for Food & Justice, Occidental College and the Community Food Security Coalition. With case studies from eight states - California, Florida, Illinois, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hamphire, North Carolina, and Oregon, the publication provides a snapshot of the diverse ways in which farm to school is making a difference nationwide.
DownloadHealthy Farms, Healthy Kids: Evaluating the Barriers and Opportunities for Farm-to-School Programs Andrea Azuma and Andy Fisher
Mon, Jan 1st, 2001
This report documents the barriers and opportunities for school food services to purchase food directly from local farmers. Case studies and policy recommendations are included.
West Coast Direct Marketing Summit Presentations Available Agricultural Marketing Service
Mon, Aug 31st, 2009
USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) today released West Coast Direct Marketing Summit: Case Study Presentations. These presentations were made at The Direct Farm Marketing Summit: Developing Sustainable Foodsheds to Enhance Food Access and Nutrition, which brought together government agencies, nonprofit organizations and farmers to investigate ways farmers can sell directly to the public.
Farm to Cafeteria Initiatives: Connections with the Tribal Food Sovereignty Movement Emily Dwyer
Thu, Apr 1st, 2010
This publication seeks to profile work underway in Native America to restore traditional food systems for children in tribal schools.
DownloadUSDA Farm to School Team 2010 Summary Report USDA
Sun, Jul 10th, 2011
This document summarizes the best practices, challenges, potential solutions and lessons learned from the USDA Farm to School Team’s 2010 site visits. The report also provides suggestions to the Department for further support of Farm to School.
Strengthening Farm to School Programs: a policy brief for state and local legislators Community Food Security Coalition
Thu, Sep 27th, 2012
This policy brief provides local and state lawmakers with specific examples and recommendations for Farm to School legislation, as well as provide detailed information about the significant role it can play in addressing problems related to child health and wellness and agricultural viability.
DownloadDelivering More: Scaling Up Farm to School Programs Kristen Markley, Marion Kalb, and Loren Gustafson
Thu, Apr 1st, 2010
How can farm to school programs reach more students and more schools? This booklet looks at CFSC’s work with four farm to school programs seeking to answer this question through strategic planning related to distribution capacity. This booklet profiles each program’s planning efforts, describes the related work of The Farm to School Distribution Learning Community, and explores the implications of the results.
DownloadFarm to Hospital: Supporting Local Agriculture and Improving Health Care Moira Beery, Center for Food & Justice, and Kristen Markley, Community Food Security Coalition
Sun, Jul 1st, 2007
This brochure introduces interested farmers and hospital food service departments to the ins and outs of developing partnerships between hospitals and local farms. Included are examples of ways hospitals can improve the food they offer, issues for farmers to consider if they are interested in selling products to area hospitals, and specific case studies of successful programs.
DownloadHealthy Farms, Healthy Kids: Evaluating the Barriers and Opportunities for Farm to School Programs Andrea Azuma and Andy Fisher
Thu, Dec 1st, -0001
California
Nutrition Education and Farm to School Programs: A Case Study Report Rainbow Vogt, PhDThu, Dec 1st, -0001
The purpose of this report is to highlight promising strategies for incorporating nutrition education into farm to school programs for the California Nutrition Network for Healthy, Active Families (Network) projects wanting to maximize the nutrition education opportunities in low resource schools by either initiating or expanding their own Farm to School programs
DownloadColorado
How Are Youth Farmers’ Markets Helping Eliminate 'Food Deserts’?Thu, Jan 6th, 2011
DownloadBuilding Relationships With Producers
Sat, Jan 1st, 2011
DownloadHow do I engage my community around Farm to School?
Thu, Jan 6th, 2011
DownloadHow do I establish salad bars to showcase more fresh foods?
Thu, Jan 6th, 2011
DownloadHow do I contract with local farmers at a competitive price for both them and me?
Thu, Jan 6th, 2011
DownloadHow do I start a school garden and use its produce in the cafeteria?
Thu, Jan 6th, 2011
DownloadHow do I ensure food safety of local foods in schools?
Thu, Jan 6th, 2011
DownloadFlorida
Farm to School: Case Studies and Resources for Success Compiled by Alison HarmonMon, Dec 1st, 2003
A case study of the farm to school project initiated by the North Florida Marketing Cooperative (pages 30-33). (PDF)
DownloadIowa
It's a win-win situation The Extension ConnectionWed, Nov 30th, -0001
A movement is afoot to improve the economic stability of Iowa's small farmers while improving the long-term health of school children. It's a win-win initiative called "farm to school."
Kentucky
Farm to School: Case Studies and Resources for Success Compiled by Alison HarmonMon, Dec 1st, 2003
A case study of the farm to school project in Kentucky (p. 35). (PDF)
Maine
Maine Farm to School Report & Recommendation to the Maine Legislature Maine Farm to School Work GroupTue, Jun 1st, 2010
The Maine Farm to School Work Group was mandated by a Resolve of the Maine Legislature to do an assessment of the Maine Farm to School movement, and produce a Report back to the Legislature with Recommendations about how the State of Maine can support the movement.
DownloadMaryland
Maryland Farm to School VideoWed, Sep 1st, 2010
Check out the Maryland Farm to School video featuring a partnership between a Harford County farmer and Harford County Public Schools Asst. Food Service Director.
Massachusetts
Massachusetts: Sowing the Seeds in Farms and SchoolsMon, Jan 1st, 2007
A case study of the Massachusetts Farm to School Program in "Going Local: Paths to Success for Farm to School Programs" (pg 12)
Michigan
Executive Summary of the Results of the Michigan Food Service Directors SurveyThu, Dec 1st, -0001
Executive Summary of the results of the Michigan Food Service Directors survey. (76KB, Word Document.)
Minnesota
Making the Farm / School Connection: Opportunities and Barriers to Greater Use of Locally-grow JoAnne BerkenkampSun, Jan 1st, 2006
Report explores the feasibility of expanding fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables in Minnesota's public K-12 schools.
DownloadThe Economic Impact of Farm-to-School Lunch Programs: A Central Minnesota Example
Tue, Jun 1st, 2010
This study from the University of Minnesota examines the potential economic impact of farm-to-school programs, focusing on a five-county area of central Minnesota. June 2010.
Farm to School in Minnesota: Fourth Annual Survey of School Food Service Leaders Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy and The Minnesota School Nutrition Association
Fri, Mar 16th, 2012
Aimed at educating children about where and how their food is grown, strengthening local economies and supporting healthy eating habits, the Farm to School (F2S) movement is rapidly growing. The Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy (IATP) has supported Farm to School efforts locally and nationally since 2007. Our work has included training for K-12 school staff and farmers, building relationships with allied businesses, promotions, outreach, research and policy change. Food service leaders at all 333 K-12 school districts in Minnesota were encouraged to participate in this survey, the fourth annual survey in our series. Responses from 184 districts were received. Their feedback is summarized in this report.
Grower Perspectives on Farm to School: A Survey of Interested Farmers, Ranchers and Other Producers JoAnne Berkenkamp, IATP
Fri, Mar 16th, 2012
As part of our work on Farm to School, the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy (IATP) conducted our second annual survey of growers interested in Farm to School in Spring 2012. This survey was designed to assess growers’ perceptions of Farm to School, challenges, aspirations and strategies that could enable growers to benefit more fully from this growing market. A request to participate in the survey was issued through a variety of channels in Minnesota and four adjacent states, including various newsletters, emails, list servs and blogs. This survey complements a similar survey that IATP conducts annually with Minnesota school food service leaders, which is available at www.iatp.org/localfoods. Our most recent food service survey found that the number of Minnesota public school districts engaged in Farm to School programs has grown from fewer than 20 districts in 2006 to 145 in 2011. Participating schools serve 68 percent of Minnesota’s K-12 population. A total of 101 farmers, ranchers, orchardists, and other producers responded to the grower survey, up from 67 respondents in 2011. The majority of respondents live in Minnesota or Wisconsin, with a few respondents from Iowa, North Dakota and South Dakota.
Montana
Unlocking the Food Buying Potential of Montana Drs. Fraser McLeay and Nicola BarronSat, Dec 10th, 2005
Drs. Fraser Mcleay and Nicola Barron analyzed Montana's public institutional food service markets, and Montana's food and agricultural producers' capacity to serve those markets. Their final report, Unlocking the Food Buying Potential of Montana's Public Institutions Towards a Montana-based Food Economy, calls Montana public institutions an important stepping stone for Montana food producers to tap into the broader food service market. It also describes the need for investment in food system infrastructure to meet the needs of these markets. The Executive Summary of the report is available here.
DownloadTracing the Chain: An In-Depth Look at the University of Montana Dr. Neva Hassanein
Sun, Dec 3rd, 2006
Dr. Neva Hassanein, Associate Professor of Environmental Studies, and 10 graduate students, followed the food chain of the University of Montana Farm to College program's purchases of local and regional food for campus dining halls and retail outlets. The research team looked at the social, economic, and transportation-related benefits and challenges associated with supporting local agricultural economic development. Some of these findings span across all types of Farm to Cafeteria programs in Montana, including Farm to School.View the Executive Summary Below.
DownloadNew Hampshire
New Hampshire: Get Smart, Eat Local, A is for Apples Anupama Joshi, Marion Kalb and Moira BeeryMon, Jan 1st, 2007
New Hampshire Case Study in "Going Local: Paths to Success for Farm to School Programs (pg 17)
NH Farm to School Program Highlights: Our First Three Years
Thu, Dec 1st, -0001
Connecting New Hampshire farms and schools by integrating production, school food procurement, and school curriculum.
New Hampshire Farm to School Get Smart Eat Local 10-District Project Case Study NH Farm to School Program
Fri, Dec 1st, 2006
New Mexico
Cooking with Kids: Case StudyThu, Dec 1st, -0001
New Mexico Farm to School case study Compiled by Alison Harmon
Thu, Dec 1st, -0001
Three Santa Fe public schools are participating in this project, two elementary and one high school. One of the elementary schools has a salad bar every day. The meal at this site includes a meat entree three times a week and a vegetarian item twice a week. The other elementary school offers a side salad of mixed greens, sunflower sprouts, and other seasonal items with lunch. The high school has a separate salad bar; students have the choice of the salad bar or a hot lunch.
DownloadFarm to School: Case Studies and Resources for Success Compiled by Alison Harmon
Mon, Dec 1st, 2003
A case study of the Cooking with Kids Program and Farm to School Project in Santa Fe (page 11-13). (PDF)
New York
Cooking with Kids Case Study Patricia Thonney and Erica ReinhardtWed, Nov 30th, -0001
Cooking With Kids Case Study. Thonney, Patricia and Erica Reinhardt. Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University 2004. (PDF)
Farm to School: Case Studies and Resources for Success Compiled by Alison Harmon
Mon, Dec 1st, 2003
A case study of the farm to school project in New York (p. 43). (PDF)
North Carolina
Synopsis of the North Carolina Farm to School ProgramThu, Feb 9th, 2006
The Farm-to-School Program is getting fresh locally grown produce from the farmers directly to the schools. This program was formed through a partnership with the Markets and Food Distribution Division of the North Carolina Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services and the Department of Defense.
GROWING LOCAL: Expanding the Western North Carolina Food and Farm Economy Laura D. Kirby, Charlie Jackson, and Allison Perrett
Sat, Sep 1st, 2007
Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project released the results of a multi-year feasibility study that looks at the potential for increasing local consumption of Western North Carolina- grown food and farm products.
Oregon
The Abernethy Scratch Kitchen Model Baseline Assessment Karrie Stevens ThomasFri, Dec 1st, 2006
DownloadNew on the Menu
Thu, Dec 1st, -0001
Twelve page summary of the 2005-06 Abernethy Elementary Farm to School project coordinated by Ecotrust.
The Spork Report- Increasing the supply and consumption of local foods in Portland Public Schools. Multnomah Food Policy Council
Mon, Jun 6th, 2005
DownloadBend LaPine Schools Farm to School Program Mylen Bohle
Thu, Feb 1st, 2007
Farm to school is seen as a central Oregon niche marketing opportunity, where produce is available to the Bend LaPine schools well after the Bend Farmers Market closes for the season.
Kelly GROW: Integrating healthy eating and active living afterschool programs at Kelly Elementary
Thu, Dec 10th, 2009
Kelly GROW is an afterschool program that integrated school garden education, garden produce served in the cafeteria, and bicycle and pedestrian safety classes at Kelly Elementary in Portland Oregon. The program targeted at-risk students enrolled in the SUN program.
DownloadThe Impact of Seven Cents Ecotrust
Wed, Jul 20th, 2011
Examining the Effects of a $.07 per Meal Investment on Local Economic Development, Lunch Participation Rates, and Student Preferences for Fruits & Vegetables in Two Oregon School Districts
DownloadPennsylvania
Farm to School: Case Studies and Resources for Success Compiled by Alison HarmonThu, Jan 1st, 2004
A case study of the farm to school project in Pennsylvania (p. 37). (PDF)
Vermont
Farm to School: Case Studies and Resources for Success Compiled by Alison HarmonThu, Jan 1st, 2004
A case study of the farm to school project in Vermont (p. 19). (PDF)
DownloadWashington
A Salad Bar Featuring Organic Choices: Revitalizing the School Nutrtion Program Paul Flock, Cheryl Petra, Vanessa Ruddy, Joseph PeterangeloTue, Apr 1st, 2003
DownloadWisconsin
The University of Wisconsin Center for Integrated Agricultural SystemsSun, Jan 1st, 2012
CIAS has been involved with Farm to School in Wisconsin since 2002 and is a partner of the AmeriCorps Farm to School Program. CIAS offers a variety of resources and tools on its website for the development of farm to school programs in Wisconsin and the Great Lakes region.
Curricular Resources
National
Professional Development for Educators 360 EducationTue, Feb 15th, 2011
360 Education Solutions offers curriculum assistance and professional development opportunities for teachers and school administrators. As an advocate group for teachers they offer a number of resources to keep educators up to date with changing government policies as well as grant programs and career advancement ideas. They can be visited at http://www.360-edu.com
List of Chefs Willing to Volunteer Healthy School Meals Resource System
Wed, Nov 30th, -0001
A list of chefs willing to volunteer their time as part of a food and nutrition education program.
"All About farmer's markets: A Teaching Guide for Classrooms, Camps, and Community Programs," Peggy Sissel-Phelan, Ed.D.
Thu, Dec 1st, 2005
A useful resource to help children make the connection between the land, the food we eat, and our health and well-being. The guide is 116 pages of original games, songs, and activities for PreK - 2nd grade classrooms, and includes ideas for field trips and parent involvement.
Fresh from the Farm TIME for Kids
Thu, May 1st, 2008
TIME for Kids Magazine Teachers Guide on Farm to School
CATCH
Thu, Dec 1st, -0001
CATCH was the largest school based health promotion program ever done in the US - as a coordinated nutrition education - employing Go, SLOW , WHOA diet concepts to help children choose healthier foods and now utilized as part of CATCH along with the CATCH - EAT SMART Guide for school nutrition service providers and also CATCH Physical Education K-8. CATCH builds alliance with school staff, parents, community and administrators to focus on health, nutrition and physical activity. Certified CATCH Trainers also help schools and districts to build their coordinated school health efforts. And, most importantly, CATCH makes nutrition learning and physical activity FUN!
Fundamentals of Organic Farming and Gardening An Instructor's Guide - Revised for 2009 Alexander McGregor, Lynn Pugh, and Jerry Larson
Thu, Dec 1st, -0001
Georgia Organics' curriculum on organic and sustainable growing is now free online. Intended for use by university extension agents, master gardeners, and high school educators, the program is the first of its kind in the state. It can be viewed online for free or it costs $10 as CD-Rom.
KidsGardening.org
Thu, Dec 1st, -0001
KidsGardening.Org - Helping Young Minds Grow
Family Cook-In Toolkit
Tue, Feb 28th, 2012
Our Screening Toolkit has all the stuff you need to have a fun and delicious Family Cook-In! Download this toolkit and watch What's on Your Plate? Then check out the games and activities in our Screening Toolkit. It has tips on how to cook and eat together! Get everyone in the kitchen chopping, stirring, pouring and baking. Then sit down together for some fresh and yummy home-cooked food. Think food justice is too tricky for kids? Think again. What's On Your Plate? proves that not only can kids understand the issues, they can actually teach other kids about how they are what they eat. The film follows two eleven-year-old multi-racial city kids as they explore their place in the food chain. Sadie and Safiyah take a close look at food systems in New York City and its surrounding areas. With the camera as their companion, the girl guides talk to each other, food activists, farmers, new friends, storekeepers, their families, and the viewer, in their quest to understand what?s on all of our plates. According to Michael Pollan: ""What's On Your Plate?" is exactly the film we need now." And Alice Waters says: "It was an amazing experience to hear kids talking about these issues. This movie can have a real impact on the way we think about what we?re eating." Join in the conversation on how we can change what we eat, and in the process, change our world. Visit our website for more information on the film and how you can get involved: www.whatsonyourplateproject.com
DownloadWhats On Your Plate? Tool Kit Aubin Pictures
Tue, Feb 7th, 2012
ln this curriculum guide, you'll find ideas for how to teach your kids about food- what it's made of, where it comes from, and how to enjoy every bite. From the producers of What's on Your Plate?, a film by Catherine Gund. It is a 40-page curriculum which matches up with short 10-20 minute "modules" in the film to create conversation and project-based learning on the film's topics.
DownloadEnvironmental Education Resources Training Teachers to Teach with Technology
Fri, Mar 23rd, 2012
When students attempt to solve answers to environmental problems, they must use critical thinking skills to work together from a long-range perspective while they try to solve real-world problems. To that end, this guide to environmental education resources will list a multitude of information sources for those teaching about conservation, sustainability, and preservation of life on earth.
Teaching the Food System Johns Hopkins Center for a Livable Future
Wed, May 2nd, 2012
Teaching the Food System is a free downloadable curriculum covering food system topics from field to plate for today’s modern classroom. The curriculum, developed by former teachers and content experts, emphasizes the relationships among food, public health, equity and the environment.
Growing Minds - Farm to School
Thu, Dec 1st, -0001
The program provides resources and training to teachers, schools, Child Nutrition Directors, cafeteria staff, parents, extension agents, farmers, and other community stakeholders to encourage and sustain Farm to School efforts.
Arizona
Arizona Specialty Crop Lessons VariousThu, Dec 1st, -0001
These 30 lessons were written by 16 Arizona teachers. All lessons teach about Arizona's specialty crop industry and they have been aligned to Arizona's Academic Standards. Each lesson encompasses more than one subject area. This project was paid for by a grant from the Arizona Department of Agriculture's Office of Marketing and Outreach. Funds were made available to the ADA by Congressional appropriation pursuant to PL 107-25.
California
Nutrition Education and Farm to School Programs: A Case Study Report Raea Vogt, PhDFri, Jun 1st, 2007
The purpose of this report is to highlight promising strategies for incorporating nutrition education into farm to school programs for the community of interested people and organizations committed to improving child health through school-based, education-oriented initiatives. The primary focus is educational strategies designed to influence students’ knowledge, attitudes, skills and, ultimately, behaviors which can support overall farm to school goals and success.
DownloadScience Exploration Units Life Lab Science Program
Mon, Jan 1st, 2007
Activity guides for garden-based exploration, K-5 grades
Connecticut
Pick Your Own Fruits and Vegetables Connecticut GrownMon, Dec 1st, 2003
Informational Brochure
District of Columbia
Seasonality Chart DC Farm to School NetworkThu, Dec 1st, -0001
An excellent visual of what’s in season throughout the year in the DC area.
DownloadFlorida
Florida Ag in the Classroom Florida Agriculture in the ClassroomThu, Dec 1st, 2011
Illinois
Directory of IL Ag in the Classroom ContactsThu, Dec 1st, -0001
Illinois Agriculture in the Classroom Contacts
DownloadKentucky
Kentucky Farm 2 School Curriculum: 9th - 12th Grades University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service / Kentucky Department of AgricultureFri, Jun 1st, 2012
Massachusetts
French Fries, and the Food System Sarah CoblynWed, Nov 30th, -0001
This agricultural curriculum features powerful, original lessons written and developed by The Food Project's growers and educators. Organized by season, the material teaches youth how to develop a deep understanding of and appreciation for the land and local food systems. Lessons can be done both indoors and outdoors and can be easily adapted by instructors working in school-based plots, urban food lots, and environmental education programs.
Grow, Cook, Teach! A resource guide for Farm to School activities Massachusetts Farm to School Project
Wed, Feb 9th, 2011
This booklet contains basic information about many programs and organizations that are defining and expanding the farm to school concept. Whether you are interested in learning about funding sources for school gardens, after-school cooking classes showcasing local produce, or ways to teach students about what's growing on the farm in May, you'll find useful references here.
DownloadNevada
Food for Thoughts University of Nevada Cooperative ExtensionThu, Dec 1st, -0001
The school gardens program is a part of the University of Nevada Cooperative Extension, and part of the Water, Horticulture, Environment and Economics Team. School Gardens are all about Garden based learning. We call this program Food for Thoughts because as our children learn to grow food and other beautiful plants, they can learn about nutrition and get wonderful benefits from learning outdoors.
Oklahoma
Oklahoma Ag in the ClassroomThu, Dec 1st, -0001
Many resources for tying agriculture in to the classroom teachings and farm to school programs.? Many lessons outline PASS objectives for the state of Oklahoma.
Oregon
Eat Think GrowThu, Dec 1st, -0001
EAT THINK GROW provides short-term and long-term support for school garden education and farm to school programs in the Pacific Northwest. We integrate garden education into the classroom, design garden beds and create annual and year around garden plans, train teachers, and regionalize the food in your cafeteria.
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania Agriculture in the ClassroomThu, Dec 1st, -0001
For teachers: Integrating fun-filled, hands-on agricultural projects into existing curriculum.?Receiving make-and-take projects and ready to use materials for the classroom.?Gaining a network of teachers and agricultural resource people locally and across the state.
Washington
Washington Grown - Harvest of the Month Seattle Public SchoolsTue, Dec 1st, 2009
The Seattle Public Schools Nutrition Services & Health Education departments collaborated on the development of materials for Washington Grown, a Harvest of the Month program. Washington Grown highlights local produce, whole grains and dairy on a monthly basis in 35 schools in the district. The materials created are transferable to districts throughout Washington since the program highlights foods grown in the state.
Wisconsin
Got Veggies? Garden-Based Nutrition Education Curriculum Wisconsin Department of Health ServicesSun, Jan 1st, 2012
Got Veggies? is a garden-based nutrition education curriculum created with the goal of getting children to eat more fresh fruits and vegetables. Got Veggies? features seven full lesson plans that are aligned with Wisconsin 's Model Academic Standards for Nutrition, Health, Science and other related subjects. A series of shorter garden-based activities are included, as well as fun recipes and helpful tips for cooking and eating in the garden. This curriculum provides an all-around great way to nurture students’ interest in growing and eating fresh fruits and vegetables!
Toward a Sustainable Agriculture Curriculum for High School Students Center for Integrated Agricultural Systems
Sun, Jan 1st, 2012
This is a multi-module curriculum geared toward high school students with a focus on Upper Midwest agricultural systems. Modules cover all aspects of our food system from production to market.
Nutritious Delicious Wisconsin: Connecting Nutrition Education and Local Foods Curricula Guide Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction
Sun, Jan 1st, 2012
Published in 2012, the Nutritious, Delicious, Wisconsin (NDW) curriculum is a thematic unit of instruction that uses local foods to teach nutrition concepts to elementary students. Nutritious, Delicious, Wisconsin focuses on Wisconsin foods with a connection to Wisconsin’s history, culture, and people. The primary goal of this curriculum is to broaden the food experiences of Wisconsin students and provide another aspect to the study of nutrition as part of the study of our great state.
Wisconsin Ag In the Classroom
Sun, Jan 1st, 2012
Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom provides Wisconsin-focused resources and lessons aligned with state standards in core subject areas including language arts, math, science and social studies. Lessons are free to download and connect to important themes such as local history, community, geography and climate. There is also information about local grants for agriculture education. You do not have to teach agriculture to make use of this resource; it would be useful to any elementary or middle school educator.
Wisconsin DPI Curriculum Resource Center
Sun, Jan 1st, 2012
Search by subject area and grade level for standard aligned curriculum and lesson. Check the health and agriculture education categories for food and farm lessons.
Got Dirt? Youth Garden Toolkit Wisconsin Department of Health Services
Sun, Jan 1st, 2012
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services offers this excellent, step-by-step plan for starting school and community gardens. The full version of the toolkit is downloadable. Also, check the list of scheduled training sessions if you’d like to attend one in your area.
Evaluation Tools & Reports
National
Bearing Fruit: Farm to School Program Evaluation Resources & Recommendations Anupama Joshi & Andrea Misako AzumaWed, Apr 15th, 2009
Released in Spring 2009, Bearing Fruit is a comprehensive guide to Farm to School program evaluation with highlights of the overall impacts of farm to school for stakeholders- teachers, food service, farmers, parents, policy makers, and community - providing excellent resources and tools to incorporate when assessing a program. Hard copies are available for the cost of shipping by contacting Anupama Joshi at ajoshi@oxy.edu
Setting the Record Straight: Nutritionists Define Healthful Food Strategic Alliance and Prevention Institute
Thu, Dec 1st, -0001
Setting the Record Straight, puts forth a definition of healthful food that looks beyond nutrients to acknowledge that truly healthful food comes from a food system where food is produced, processed, transported, and marketed in ways that are environmentally sound, sustainable and just.
Farm to School Evaluation Toolkit UNC/NFSN
Thu, Jul 7th, 2011
As Farm to School programs develop, there is a need to create a strong evidence base for these efforts to strengthen programs, practices, and policies. NFSN worked with The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill to develop this evaluation toolkit.
DownloadSchool Lunch Recall UNC-CH Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention
Wed, Jan 12th, 2011
The School Lunch Recall (SLR) was developed to evaluate the dietary impact of farm to school programs on fruit and vegetable consumption during school lunch in elementary schools. It is a valid and efficient tool to capture what children eat at school from the school-provided meal.
DownloadUNC Research Summaries UNC/NFSN
Fri, May 13th, 2011
These four one-page documents summarize the research done as part of a coordinated Farm to School program evaluation at four sites (Riverside,CA; Springfield, OR; Saratoga Springs, NY and Union 74, ME). Supported by the National Farm to School Network; conducted by the Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
DownloadAlaska
Alaska's Farm to School Program: Preparing the Ground Sylvan Robb, Senior Consultant for the Alaska Division of AgricultureWed, Feb 1st, 2012
This report details the process evaluation of the first year of Alaska’s Farm to School Program. The goal of the process evaluation was to determine if the AFTSP was meeting the expectations of the stakeholders and whether it was being established in a way that would ensure success of program goals outlined in the strategic plan.
Arizona
Arizona Farm to School Program Report 2012 Arizona Department of EducationThu, Mar 1st, 2012
This report is a summary of Arizona Department of Education's Health and Nutrition Services’ annual Farm to School Program survey that was distributed to food service directors in 500 districts in March 2012.
DownloadCalifornia
A Growing Movement: A Decade of Farm to School in California Anupama Joshi and Moira BeeryMon, Oct 1st, 2007
A Growing Movement: A Decade of Farm to School in California is a brand new resource from the California Farm to School Program at the Center for Food & Justice. The farm to school movement began in California more than 10 years ago. This report tells the story of work undertaken by farm to school proponents in California and chronicles the emergence of the program, and the impacts it has had on students, farmers, and communities around the state.
DownloadDistrict of Columbia
Healthy Schools Annual Report OSSESat, Jun 30th, 2012
In compliance with the Health Schools Act, the Office of the State Superintendent released a report on the state of farm to school initiatives and school garden efforts for the 2012 fiscal year.
DownloadIllinois
Report of the Illinois Farm to School Survey Results Prepared by the Master’s Program in Learning & Organizational Change at Northwestern UniversityFri, Oct 1st, 2010
This survey is the result of collaboration between the Illinois Farm to School network and the Master of Science in Learning and Organizational Change (MSLOC) program at Northwestern University. The survey was created to gather information that would assist Illinois Farm to School with the activation of new state legislation -- the Illinois Food, Farms, and Jobs Act -- which was signed into law in August 2009. This legislation established a goal of sourcing 10% of the food served in "state-funded institutions" from farms within the state of Illinois by 2020. The survey was distributed state wide and specifically sought to gather information from parents of K-12 school children, principals, teachers, food service directors/managers, superintendents and farmers.
DownloadMissouri
Missouri Farm to School: Survey Results Bill McKelveyWed, Dec 1st, 2010
This publication highlights the results of a farm to school survey conducted with K-12 food service directors in Missouri.
New Mexico
2007 Farm to School Survey Le Adams, Jimmy PurvisSat, May 5th, 2007
DownloadNew York
New York State Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Distribution Project NY Farms!Sun, Jan 1st, 2006
Oklahoma
The Oklahoma Farm-to-School Report, Including the Oklahoma Institutional Food Service Survey Kerr Center for Sustainable Agriculture, Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food, and Forestry, & DWed, Jan 1st, 2003
The Oklahoma Food Policy Council is a joint project of the Kerr Center for Sustainable Agriculture and the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food, and Forestry and Drake University, in partnership with the USDA Risk Management Agency.
Vermont
Impact Assessment of Vermont Farm2School Program - Executive Summary John RyanSat, Apr 1st, 2006
The driving goal in the Farm2School initiative is to promote healthier children and a healthier Vermont food system. Buying more fresh local produce should be seen as a means to achieving those goals. In the short-term, the capacity of the food system to increase purchases of Vermont products is limited. At whatever level of purchase, the value of buying fresh local food is greatly enhanced by the direct connection of healthy eating with a place-based nutritional and agricultural curriculum. Student participation in discovering, growing, recipe-making, cooking, and tasting these foods represents the crucial link that drives real change in eating habits. Local school food purchases alone will not change basic nutritional values nor will it serve to secure the future of local agriculture in Vermont. Vermont agriculture's self-interest in this effort is a long-term one: their participation will develop the connection with and loyalty of the next generation of healthier-eating, Vermont consumers.
Impact Assessment of Vermont Farm2School Program - Final Report John Ryan
Sat, Apr 1st, 2006
The analysis begins by asking a number of questions: How much Vermont farm produce and dairy product does the Vermont school food program currently purchase? What key challenges stand in the way of increasing Vermont food purchases and local Farm2School Partnerships? What actions would increase the likelihood of overcoming the challenges to reaching increased levels of activity? What represents a realistic increase in the level of Vermont farm purchases over the next five years? What represents a realistic increase in the number of local Farm2School partnerships over the next several years? What impacts would those actions have on key participants in the school food system, including farmers, school food workers, food distributors, local and state governments, parents and children?
Virginia
Virginia Farm-to-School Work Group SummaryTue, Jun 1st, 2010
DownloadFarm to School Task Force Report
Fri, Dec 1st, 2006
Results of Focus Groups and Interviews with Virginia Farm to School Program Stakeholders Virginia Tech Department of Agricultural and Extension Education
Mon, Oct 1st, 2012
Includes results from focus groups and interviews with School Nutrition Directors, Specialty Crop Farmers, and Food Distributors.
DownloadResults of the 2011 Virginia Farm to School Program Survey of School Nutrition Directors Virginia Tech Department of Agricultural and Extension Education
Mon, Oct 1st, 2012
DownloadWisconsin
Wisconsin Farm to School: One Year Evaluation Report UW-Madison Wisconsin Prevention of Obesity and DiabetesSun, Jan 1st, 2012
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health researched and reported on the effects of Wisconsin’s Farm to School programs on student attitudes, knowledge, behaviors and consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables
DownloadDishing up Local Food on Wisconsin Campuses (Research Brief #55) Center for Integrated Agricultural Systems
Sun, Jan 1st, 2012
The brief studies strategies for buying fresh and local on college and university campuses across the state. The study includes a consideration of campus size and price in their effect on farm to school programs.
Farm-to-school Program Provides Learning Experience (Research Brief #74) Center for Integrated Agricultural Systems
Thu, Feb 1st, 2007
The brief examines challenges to nutrition education and healthy food consumption. The study considers cultural indicators as well as structural (e.g., food service capacity), and fiscal ones as well.
How to Get Started
National
The Little Green Schoolhouse: Thinking Big About Ecological Sustainability, Children The Green Schools InitiativeWed, Jun 7th, 2006
The Little Green Schoolhouse establishes a framework that brings together a variety of school-related environmental health and sustainability issues under one conceptual and strategic roof. It documents how our current school systems are threats to our childrens' health and models of unsustainability. Drawing from a diversity of inspiring efforts going on around the country, the report also presents a broad idealistic vision of what green and healthy schools could look like. And it articulates a series of pragmatic policy recommendations, including organizing to pass school board resolutions that serve as blueprints for sustainable and healthy schools.
How Local Farmers and School Food Service Buyers Are Building Alliances Debra Tropp and Surajudeen Olowolayemo
Thu, Dec 1st, -0001
On May 1, 2000, more than 180 individuals - school food service directors, State and Federal commodity procurement officials, Extension agents, members of farm cooperatives, and agricultural marketing specialists - gathered at the Georgetown College Training and Conference Center in Georgetown, KY, to share information and strategies aimed at boosting the use of locally produced fresh food in school feeding programs.? The event, entitled the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Small Farm/School Meals Initiative Southeast Regional Workshop, was cosponsored and organized by the USDA, Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), the USDA, Food and Nutrition Service, the University of Kentucky's Cooperative Extension Service, and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture.? This report summarizes the educational highlights of the workshop in an effort to help small farmers and school food service buyers throughout the country explore how they might be able to establish similar business relationships in their own communities.
Farm to School: Minnesota Toolkit for Food Service University of Minnesota
Thu, Dec 1st, -0001
Farm to school programs are receiving a lot of attention these days. Concern about a rise in obesity and diet-related metabolic disorders among children combined with increased interest in supporting local economies have lots of people thinking hard about the food that kids get in schools. Placing locally-grown food on school lunch plates can help spark students' interest in a healthier diet, get school food service dollars reinvested in the community, and provide concerned parents and administrators with a short, transparent, traceable route that the food traveled from farm to plate.
According to a recent survey of food service directors by the Minnesota School Nutrition Association (www.agobservatory.org/library.cfm?refID=105219), many school food service directors are interested in farm to school programs, but lack time to explore options or implement new strategies. This can be an overwhelming obstacle to a food service director who is already under enormous time and budget constraints. A toolkit of ready-to-use materials could go a long way toward increasing participation in farm to school programs.
The Willmar School District in western Minnesota has gradually incorporated locally purchased food into its cafeteria menu over the last four years. In response to requests to share their information, Annette Hendrickx Derouin (Willmar's Director of Food and Nutrition Services) and Lynn Mader (U of M Extension, Family Development) have been working with the Minnesota Institute for Sustainable Agriculture and an advisory team to develop an online toolkit for Minnesota school nutrition programs. The toolkit contains information and materials to assist in planning a farm to school program; sourcing, preparing, and serving local foods; and promoting the food to students, parents, teachers, and administrators. Ready-to-use items include cafeteria menus and recipes complete with nutritional information, sample newsletter and announcement pieces, posters, and tested methods for getting students to sample the food.
While most of this website toolkit is intended specifically for food service, the website also provides links to resources to learn more about farm to school programs, including classroom and community connections. Check out the website, www.mn-farmtoschool.umn.edu . For more information, contact Lynn Mader, made0036@umn.edu, 612-708-8635.
Mapping School Food: A Policy Guide Marlo R. Miura, Jason A. Smith, Jess Alderman
Fri, Dec 7th, 2007
Improving the school food environment can be a difficult task, and understanding school food law and policy can be a barrier to getting started. Mapping School Food was written to help legislators, advocates, parents, teachers and anyone interested in improving school food navigate school food law and policy.
Mapping School Food is an innovative guide that describes school food policy from the perspective of different personnel in the school system. It also provides tools to help advocates find answers, resolve conflicts, and build consensus for improving school food in their community.
Mapping School Food is available as a free download.
Bringing Local Food to Local Institutions Barbara C. Bellows, Rex Dufour, and Janet Bachmann
Sun, Dec 1st, 2002
This Resource Guide for Farm-to-School and Farm-to-Institution Programs provides farmers, school administrators, and institutional food-service planners with contact information and descriptions of existing programs that have made these connections between local farmers and local school lunchrooms, college dining halls, or cafeterias in other institutions. To help communities initiate similar programs, this publication includes resource lists.
Start a Farm in the City (Comience una Granja en la Ciudad) Rex Dufour
Wed, Jul 1st, 2009
This publication outlines some of the pros and cons related to urban farming, illustrated by the story of a young girl starting a garden in the city. It includes 12 pages of resources, with information about urban soils and soil testing resources, as well as a state by state listing of organizations which have urban ag educational programs around the country. The Spanish version is a bit longer as it includes a listing of Spanish language resources. Click here for the English version, and click here for the Spanish version.
Farm to School Fundraising National Farm to School Network
Thu, Aug 16th, 2012
This fact sheet developed by the National Farm to School Network provides basic information and tips about raising funds and acquiring donations to support Farm to School programs and activities. Download
The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition’s Guide to USDA Funding for Local and Regional Food S Kate Fitzgerald, Lucy Evans, Jessica Daniel
Thu, Apr 1st, 2010
Model School Board Resolution
Thu, Dec 15th, 2011
School boards can bring the benefits of farm-to-school initiatives to their district schools by adopting a policy of support.11 State legislatures grant school boards the authority to set the direction and structure of their school districts by adopting policies, often in the form of resolutions. Policies establish directions for the district; they set the goals, assign authority, and establish controls that make school governance and management possible. By adopting a farm-to-school policy, by resolution or other format, school boards can direct school employees to initiate a program or offer support for programs to grow. In addition, they can direct staff to apply for grant funding to support their programs. Download
Starting and Maintaining a School Garden National Farm to School Network
Thu, Aug 16th, 2012
This fact sheet developed by the National Farm to School Network provides how-to information and tips for creating and maintaining a school garden. Download
How Can Farm to School Work in Different Climates? NFSN
Sun, Feb 17th, 2008
Climate isn't a barrier to Farm to School. See how different regions make it work in this two-page overview. Download
How Can You Get Involved? NFSN
Sun, Feb 17th, 2008
This two-page fact sheet talks about getting involved with Farm to School and starting a program. Download
Why Farm to School? NFSN
Sun, Feb 17th, 2008
This two-page fact sheet talks about the reasons Farm to School is important: improving child nutrition and saving family farms. Download
What is Farm to School? NFSN
Sun, Feb 17th, 2008
This two-page fact sheet outlines the components of Farm to School. Download
Farm to School in Preschool National Farm to School Network / Farm to Preschool Subcommittee
Fri, Aug 24th, 2012
This fact sheet highlights Farm to School Preschool strategies, the importance of reaching children at a young age, and what the National Farm to School Network's Farm to Preschool Subcommittee is doing to advance the Farm to Preschool movement. Download
Getting Started with Farm to School National Farm to School Network
Wed, Oct 31st, 2012
Farm to School offers multiple strategies to improve the health of children and communities, but getting started can be a daunting
endeavor. This fact sheet provides some simple first steps to develop a lasting Farm to School program in your community. Download
Colorado Farm to School Primer Healthy Community Food Systems and LiveWell Colorado
Wed, Dec 1st, 2010
A 28 page booklet available for free download providing the basics of school food, farm to school, current activities, and how to build excellence into farm to school programs. Although some data is for Colorado, the main message is useful anywhere.
Webinar: Getting Started with Local Purchasing Megan Kemple
Mon, Apr 29th, 2013
This is a webinar on "Getting Started with Local Purchasing"
It’s about 40 minutes of presentation and 20 minutes of Q & A
Webinar on Getting Started with Local Purchasing:
During the webinar we shared information about how to get started with Farm to School, including tips for:
• defining "local"
• which products to start with
• planning for the school year and growing season
• connecting with farmers
• promoting your local purchasing efforts
Arizona
Farm to School: Bridging the Gap from Field to Plate Arizona Department of EducationSun, Jan 1st, 2012
This brochure outlines the Arizona Farm to School Program located within the Arizona Department of Education.
DownloadSchool Gardens Online Resource Arizona Department of Education
Thu, Dec 1st, -0001
This site put together by the Arizona Department of Education has many resources to help school create and maintain safe school gardens.
Arkansas
The Arkansas Grow Healthy Study- How to Get Involved Andrew CarberrySun, Jul 1st, 2012
This is a brochure describing the Arkansas Grow Healthy Study and how farmers, schools, and others can get involved.
DownloadCalifornia
Gardens for Learning: Creating and Sustaining Your School Garden California School Garden NetworkThu, Dec 1st, 2005
A comprehensive instructional resource for teachers, parents and schools interested in garden-based learning. This book was developed by the California School Garden Network (CGSN), a nonprofit organization whose mission is to create and sustain California gardens to enhance academic achievement, a healthy lifestyle, environmental stewardship, community and social development.
Georgia
Atlanta Farm to School and Educational Garden Programs Resource GuideSat, Sep 1st, 2007
Iowa
Local Food Connections: From Farms to Schools. Iowa State University ExtensionThu, Dec 1st, -0001
Through direct marketing of their products, Iowa farmers and growers are forming a stronger connection with their customers and obtaining premium prices or those products. One potential direct marketing customer is the local school.
Selling to Institutions: An Iowa Farmer Robert Luedeman & Neil D. Hamilton
Thu, Dec 1st, -0001
lists helpful information on insurance and legal issues for producers who want to enter institutional food markets. It was written by Des Moines attorney Robert Luedeman and Neil Hamilton from the Drake Agricultural Law Center
Kentucky
Farm to School Kentucky Handbook Kentucky Department of Agriculture / Kentucky Department for Public Health / Kentucky Department ofFri, Jun 1st, 2012
Massachusetts
For Parents: Farm to School Networking in Your DistrictThu, Dec 1st, -0001
The Massachusetts Farm to School Project put together this guide for parents to get involved with school's food services in your district. We've provided some ideas of people to stay in contact with, as well as ways you can seek help from Massachusetts Farm to School Project. Read this page for tips on how to be an effective advocate for healthy, local foods in schools!
DownloadMichigan
Michigan Farm to School websiteThu, Dec 1st, -0001
Michigan Farm to School is a portal for information and a venue for sharing ideas, tools, and resources to support these and other efforts to link schools with local agriculture in Michigan.
Minnesota
Minnesota Toolkit Farm to School University of MinnesotaFri, Dec 1st, 2006
Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy’s Farm to School Website
Fri, Sep 28th, 2012
Nevada
The Farm to School Food Safety Program the United States Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Services (Farm to School Grant ProgrMon, Jun 10th, 2013
Establishing school gardens and buying from local farmers is a great way to encourage fruit and vegetable consumption in schools. However, potential food safety risks should be taken seriously. Produce can be contaminated during growth, harvest, transportation, preparation or service and result in foodborne illness. When appropriate food safety precautions are taken, risks of crop contamination and foodborne illness are greatly reduced. Information regarding school garden food safety, good agriculture practices, and food safety record keeping can be found below. Remember food safety begins on the farm and in the garden! The Farm to School Food Safety Program is funded by the United States Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Services (Farm to School Grant Program).
New Jersey
NJ Farm to School Network Partners New Jersey Farm to School NetworkSat, Jun 19th, 2010
Research New Jersey Farm to School Network
Sat, Jun 1st, 2013
Resources New Jersey Farm to School Network
Tue, Jan 1st, 2013
New York
How We Started A Farm to Cafeteria Program and How You Can Start One TooThu, Oct 1st, 2009
This "How To" summarizes New York's farm to cafeteria success.
DownloadNorth Dakota
Starting a Farm to School or Cafeteria Program in your community Sue B. Balcom - FARRMSTue, Mar 1st, 2011
A basic how to start a farm to school chapter with an initial meeting. PLUS information on geographic preference and bidding policy as well as school garden question and answers. Also contain local contact information and websites.
DownloadOhio
Ohio Farm to School GuidebookThu, Dec 1st, 2011
A short primer on Farm to School resources in Ohio, and the various ways to incorporate Farm to School in the kitchen, lunchroom, classroom and beyond in Ohio schools.
DownloadOregon
Getting Started with Local Purchasing EcotrustMon, Apr 1st, 2013
This is an overview of tips for getting started with Farm to School purchasing
DownloadPennsylvania
Pennsylvania Association for Sustainable Agriculture Pennsylvania Association for Sustainable AgricultureThu, Dec 1st, -0001
The Pennsylvania Association for Sustainable Agriculture gives many links relevant for anyone interested in farm to school in Pennsylvania.
Growing the Links Between Farms and Schools Clare Hinrichs, Kai Schafft, Dara Bloom, and Erin McHenry-Sorber
Sat, Nov 1st, 2008
Guidebook for Pennsylvania Farmers, Schools and Communities: Growing the Links Between Farms and Schools Interested in bringing a farm to school program to a school near you- The Center for Rural Pennsylvania's recently released guide, Growing the Links between Farms and Schools: A How-To Guidebook for Pennsylvania Farmers, Schools and Communities, could help. The guide is aimed at schools and school districts, especially food service directors, teachers, administrators, school nurses, and school health and wellness committees. It was also written for farmers and suppliers who are interested in participating in a farm to school program but are unsure about when or how to develop relationships with local schools. The guidebook recognizes that both schools and farmers need to work together to make farm to school programs work effectively and describes a number of different ways to make connections and to start and sustain a successful farm to school program. Dr. Clare Hinrichs, Dr. Kai Schafft, Dara Bloom and Erin McHenry-Sorber of Pennsylvania State University developed the guide through a grant from the Center.
DownloadVermont
How Do We Feed Vermont's School Children :An Insiders Guide to Vermont School Meals and How To Impro Vermont FEEDThu, Dec 1st, -0001
The purpose of this primer is: - To outline how Vermont schools currently provide meals to their children. - To show how the Farm2School initiative is working with schools to encourage greater use of fresh local foods and helping Vermont children make wiser, healthier choices about the food they eat.
Vermont Farm to School: A Guide for Connecting Farms to Schools and Communities VT Food Education Every Day
Mon, Jan 1st, 2007
Contains information and resources on: how to market farm products for use in schools; how to use a farm for education with students; hands-on, farm-based educational activities; how to connect farms to their communities. Please contact VT Feed for a copy of this booklet.
Washington
Farm to School Start-Up Kit Washington State Department of AgricultureSat, Sep 1st, 2012
WSDA created this Farm to School Start-Up Kit in partnership with Kent School District to assist schools as they consider their options and begin farm to school efforts. In 2010, Kent School District’s commitment to providing tasty, affordable, healthy meal programs was recognized and they were selected to participate in Public Health-Seattle & King County Communities Putting Prevention to Work grant. The grant provided funding to launch a farm to school program in the district, and WSDA worked with them to increase the use of seasonal, fresh, Washington-grown foods in the meal and snack programs. The project team developed documents, templates and resources to use in Kent School District. The Start-Up Kit is designed to share those tools and resources for use in other districts. The Start-Up Kit provides step-by-step guidance, with links to open the individual tools and resources along the way. Whether you're new to farm to school, or are interested in resources to support specific aspects of your existing program, it's worth taking a look. The kit is organized by topic for ease of use.
Wisconsin
Joint Memorandum in Support of Farm to School Wisconsin Department of Public InstructionFri, Jan 1st, 2010
The Department of Public Instruction, the Department of Health Services, and the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection issued a joint memorandum in support of Wisconsin Farm to School efforts in September 2010. The memorandum provides an overview of legislation and safety regulations.
Other Resources
National
Lunch Lessons: Changing the way we feed our children Chef Ann CooperWed, Nov 30th, -0001
Fresh, Healthy and Safe Food: Best Practices for Using Produce from School Gardens National Farm to School Network
Thu, Jan 29th, 2009
DownloadCommenting on USDA Nutrition Standards NFSN
Fri, Apr 1st, 2011
DownloadHow to Apply a Geographic Preference National Farm to School Network
Mon, Apr 11th, 2011
On February 1st, 2011 USDA released a memo, SP_18-2011, that offers a Question and Answer format on how a geographic preference may be applied. To view the memo, go to: http://www.fns.usda.gov/cnd/Governance/Policy-Memos/2011/SP18-2011_os.pdf. This document highlights major points from the memo.
DownloadEducation News website
Sun, Mar 13th, 2011
A Global Leading News Source covering educational, political, business, and environmental issues. Since 1997 EducationNews has provided the latest daily EducationNews coverage from world-wide sources. In addition to the U. S. and world media publications, commentaries and reports are featured and include comprehensive views on education issues from all sides of the political spectrum. EducationNews.org has been ranked Number 1 for many years in our coverage of education. EducationNews.org is a fresh approach to the age-old problem of increasing coverage of education news. Unfortunately, education is not a topic that news organizations are able to provide premium coverage to all the time, thus ironically, all education experts face the same problem – the difficulty of educating the public.
Action Strategies Toolkit Robert Wood Johnson Foundation
Fri, May 1st, 2009
Working in close collaboration with 11 influential policy-maker organizations, Leadership for Healthy Communities developed this toolkit to equip state, municipal, county and school leaders with promising and evidence-based policy approaches designed to improve children's health and reduce childhood obesity. This comprehensive resource includes strategies in 10 policy areas, lists of key stakeholders, tips on how to start programs, and examples of policies that states and communities have implemented successfully. It is prefaced with an unequivocal leadership statement signed by executive directors from each of the 11 participating policy-maker organizations.This statement underscores the organizations' recognition that childhood obesity is a national problem and reflects their commitment to work collaboratively across levels of government to build healthier communities.
DownloadWhat Can USDA Do? One Tray Team
Wed, Sep 16th, 2009
This document is a ten-point roadmap for national coordination between government at all levels and partners promoting Farm to School and sustainable procurement practices developed by the National Farm to School Network, Community Food Security Coalition, and School Food FOCUS.
DownloadSuccession and Enterprise Adaptation at the Rural Urban Interface Shoshanah Inwood and Jeff S. Sharp
Mon, Jun 1st, 2009
To find out the succession strategies of farms near urban areas, Shoshanah Inwood, a research associate with the Social Responsibility Initiative in Ohio State University's College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences interviewed farm families located near Columbus, Ohio, and Grand Rapids, Michigan. Succession and Enterprise Adaptation at the Rural Urban Interface (PDF/581KB) describes four types of strategies being used to keep farms viable. Click here for an article about this report.
The School Nutrition Operations Report: The State of School Nutrition 2009 School Nutrition Association
Tue, Jun 30th, 2009
The School Nutrition Operations Report: The State of School Nutrition 2009 , to be released June 30th, benchmarks detailed information on operational issues of school nutrition programs and policies including participation rates, meal charges, trends in food offerings, food safety, procurement, lunch periods, payment systems and more!
Food Stamp Use Linked To Weight Gain, Study Finds
Wed, Aug 12th, 2009
Researchers found that the average user of food stamps had a Body Mass Index (BMI) 1.15 points higher than non-users. The link between food stamps and higher weight was almost entirely based on women users, who averaged 1.24 points higher BMI than those not in the program, the study found. For an average American woman, this would mean an increase in weight of 5.8 pounds.
Legislative History Related to Farm to School USDA
Fri, Mar 12th, 2010
Farm to School Legislation: A State by State Listing National Farm to School Network / Community Food Security Coalition
Wed, Aug 17th, 2011
DownloadProposed Rule on Geographic Preference USDA
Wed, Jun 2nd, 2010
DownloadFarm to School Everywhere! Debra Eschmeyer
Wed, May 19th, 2010
DownloadSample letter for comments on Geographic Preference National Farm to School Network
Wed, Jun 2nd, 2010
DownloadStrategic Action Plan (2010 - 2012) - National Farm to School Network National Farm to School Network
Tue, Dec 21st, 2010
A snapshot of the National Farm to School Network's Strategic Action Plan (2010-2012).
DownloadBuilding a Future With Farmers: Challenges Faced by Young, American Farmers and a National Strategy Lindsey Lusher Shute
Tue, Nov 1st, 2011
The National Young Farmers’ Coalition (NYFC) was formed by and for the next generation of American family farmers. NYFC’s issues and mission are directly informed by the needs of young, first-career farmers in rural America. To that end, drawing on a survey of over 1,000 farmers in our national network, we present a vision of policy change and achievable recommendations that will help the next generation of American farmers thrive.
DownloadFarm to School Competitive Grants Program National Farm to School Network
Tue, Jan 18th, 2011
The Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act establishes a Farm to School competitive grant and technical assistance program to increase the use of local foods from small and medium sized farms in schools. Grants will be available up to $100,000 per project, and may be used for training, planning, purchasing equipment, building school gardens and developing partnerships to create new or support existing programs.
DownloadFarm to School: State Legislation (Presentation) Community Food Security Coalition
Sat, Jan 1st, 2011
DownloadWSDA Farm-to-School Web-Based Toolkit Washington State Department of Agriculture Farm-to-School Program
Thu, Dec 1st, -0001
The WSDA Farm-to-School Toolkit is designed to provide farms, schools, families, and communities with resources to help them meet their farm-to-school goals. Through stories, photos, templates, documents and more, this toolkit highlights farm-to-school and school garden successes throughout Washington and draws together best practices and farm-to-school tips from our in-state and national network partners. The toolkit includes a Washington-Grown Food Kit for food service, with recipes, nutrition facts and sample menus for serving Washington grown foods in schools. Resources will continue to evolve, with increased inclusion of food service resources for those in childcare and senior meal program settings.
Farm to School Basics and National Contacts NFSN
Sat, Apr 23rd, 2011
This 4-page document briefly explains the mission of the National Farm to School Network and lists contact information for all national staff, regional leads, and state leads.
DownloadNational Farm to School Network Advisors
Thu, May 5th, 2011
This is a list of our advisors and their contact information.
DownloadMaternal and Child Health Library at Georgetown University Various
Thu, Sep 15th, 2011
The MCH Library at Georgetown University offers access to accurate, timely information about maternal and child health (MCH) topics. The library presents a wide variety of electronic resources, including the MCH Alert, resource guides, databases, and other materials developed for professionals and families. View the library online at http://mchlibrary.info.
State Agricultural Facts National Ag in the Classroom
Thu, Jul 1st, 2010
Changes to the Nutrition Standards in the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs Alyssa Moles
Wed, Jan 25th, 2012
In December 2010, Congress passed the most recent iteration of the Child Nutrition Act, the Healthy Hunger-Free Kids Act. HHFKA required the USDA to update meal patterns for school meals (school breakfast and school lunch) to bring them in line with the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans and with the Institute of Medicine’s 2009 recommendations contained in the report, School Meals: Building Blocks for Healthy Children.This document outlines the previous standards, proposed standards and new final regulations.
DownloadNATIONAL FARM TO SCHOOL NETWORK REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS REGIONAL LEAD AGENCY – South Region NFSN
Fri, Oct 12th, 2012
The National Farm to School Network (NFSN) is seeking proposals from organizations in the South region (Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama) to serve as the South Regional Lead Agency (RLA) for the NFSN.
DownloadRecipes for Healthy Kids: Cookbook for Schools USDA
Tue, Oct 23rd, 2012
The recipes in this cookbook feature foods both children and adults should consume more of: dark green and orange vegetables, dry beans and peas, and whole grains. All of these healthy recipes are low in total fat, saturated fat, sugar and sodium. With fun names like Porcupine Sliders, Smokin' Powerhouse Chili, and Squish Squash Lasagna, these kid-tested, kid-approved recipes are sure to please children and be an instant hit! Features recipes for 50 and 100 servings The cookbooks also provide tips on best-buying practices, nutrition, and food safety.
Recipes for Healthy Kids: Cookbook for Child Care Centers USDA
Tue, Oct 23rd, 2012
The recipes in this cookbook feature foods both children and adults should consume more of: dark green and orange vegetables, dry beans and peas, and whole grains. All of these healthy recipes are low in total fat, saturated fat, sugar and sodium. With fun names like Porcupine Sliders, Smokin' Powerhouse Chili, and Squish Squash Lasagna, these kid-tested, kid-approved recipes are sure to please children and be an instant hit! Features recipes for 25 and 50 servings The cookbooks also provide tips on best-buying practices, nutrition, and food safety.
Farm to School: A Tool for Success with the New Nutrition Standards National Farm to School Network
Mon, Oct 29th, 2012
Farm to School activities inherently complement the new nutrition standards by helping increase student interest in new foods and fostering a deeper understanding of the origin of food and the importance of good nutrition, all of which can increase participation in school meal programs. This resource highlights Farm to School activities and resources that can help ease the transition to the new standards and foster support for school meal programs.
DownloadSnapshot Survey Results 2012 - 2012 National Farm to School Network
Fri, Nov 30th, 2012
The National Farm to School Network (NFSN) developed and administered a brief, web-based, nine-question survey in April 2012 to obtain basic information about Farm to School activities by state. The survey was intended to collect estimates about Farm to School activities, not exact information, knowing that respondents may or may not have access to such information. Final analysis included 41 surveys representing 41 states.
DownloadSnapshot Survey Info-graphic NFSN
Thu, Dec 6th, 2012
The National Farm to School Network (NFSN) developed and administered a brief, web-based, nine-question survey in April 2012 to obtain basic information about Farm to School activities by state. The survey was intended to collect estimates about Farm to School activities, not exact information, knowing that respondents may or may not have access to such information. Final analysis included 41 surveys representing 41 states.
DownloadThe Benefits of Farm to School National Farm to School Network
Wed, Jan 9th, 2013
This fact sheet created by the National Farm to School Network summarizes research to illustrate the benefits of Farm to School programs including: Student Health and Achievement; Food Service Costs, Revenue, Interest; Benefits for Farmers; Community and Economy; Teachers; and Parents.
DownloadND Farm to School web page
Thu, Dec 1st, -0001
North Dakota's farm to school web page. We are currently seeking your programs to add to this site. Please note there is a directory of farmers and schools that are interested in Farm to School Activities.
Alaska
Getting local food products into Alaska schools a worthy challenge Nancy TarnaiSun, Feb 13th, 2011
Farm to School Western Region - Snapshop and Contacts Stacey Sobell
Tue, Apr 10th, 2012
Regional Lead Agencies in eight regions of the country have been established to lead farm to school efforts in the states that comprise the regions. This document contacts basic information about the western region: Alaska, Hawai'i, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon and Washington.
DownloadAlaska School Garden Food Safety Guidelines
Tue, Nov 1st, 2011
DownloadFish to Schools Video Sitka Conservation Society
Tue, Oct 9th, 2012
A Video to Celebrate Fish to Schools! This video prepared JV Americorps, Courtney Bobsin, is about the importance of Fish to Schools. Developed in partnership with Sitka Conservation Society and Southeast Alaska Regional Health Consortium (SEARHC).
Arizona
Arizona Agriculture in the Classroom - School Field Trips Arizona Farm BureauThu, Oct 20th, 2011
This is a list of farms and ranches partnered with the Arizona Farm Bureau who participate in field trips for schools. Here is a link to a Target field trip grant to help with transportation costs
Minimizing Microbial Food Safety Hazards in the School Garden: Food Safety Plan Arizona Department of Education
Sun, Jan 1st, 2012
This is a guide developed by the Arizona Department of Education in accordance with the Arizona Department of Health Service’s food safety guidelines for the school garden (page 4-5).
DownloadCalifornia
Resources for Farm to School Champions Center for Food & JusticeSat, Sep 1st, 2007
This Farm to School resource primer is a great one-pager linking you to materials and organizations that can help you implement and sustain your farm to school program.
Farm to School Western Region - Snapshop and Contacts Stacey Sobell
Tue, Apr 10th, 2012
Regional Lead Agencies in eight regions of the country have been established to lead farm to school efforts in the states that comprise the regions. This document contacts basic information about the western region: Alaska, Hawai'i, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon and Washington.
DownloadConnecticut
Connecticut Farm MapThu, Dec 1st, -0001
Visit Connecticut's farms, courtesy of a new Connecticut Farm Map. This colored, full-scale road map lists by category, 222 farm businesses with detailed directions to their establishments and brief descriptions of their business. It includes Ag-Tourism, Farmers' Markets, Christmas trees, Pick-Your-Own, Orchards, Maple Syrup and many others. The map also contains information on Connecticut agricultural statistics, Farmers' Markets, Cooperative Extension offices and Department of Agriculture contacts. This map is both entertaining and educational and points to the diversity of our state's agriculture and of its importance as a destination attraction. The map is distributed at Extension offices, tourism centers and farm stands.
District of Columbia
DC School Lunch 101 DC Farm to School NetworkThu, Dec 1st, 2011
An overview of the National School Lunch Program, including both federal and local school lunch reimbursements, this document outlines the flow of funding for school meals from the federal level to individual schools in Washington, DC. A helpful introductory resource for those unfamiliar with the logistics of school meal funding in DC.
DownloadGeorgia
Georgia Organics Farm to School video Georgia Organics (created by Anthony-Masterson Photography)Mon, Mar 30th, 2009
Check out the new "Farm to School" Video from Georgia Organics to learn more about the "4 C's" involved in this program - Classroom, Cafeteria, Culinary, and Community. Features Mendez Foundation's Seeds of Nutrition Program.
Hawaii
Farm to School Western Region - Snapshop and Contacts Stacey SobellTue, Apr 10th, 2012
Regional Lead Agencies in eight regions of the country have been established to lead farm to school efforts in the states that comprise the regions. This document contacts basic information about the western region: Alaska, Hawai'i, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon and Washington.
DownloadIdaho
Farm to School Western Region - Snapshop and Contacts Stacey SobellTue, Apr 10th, 2012
Regional Lead Agencies in eight regions of the country have been established to lead farm to school efforts in the states that comprise the regions. This document contacts basic information about the western region: Alaska, Hawai'i, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon and Washington.
DownloadIllinois
Illinois Vegetable Garden Guide University of Illinois ExtensionThu, Dec 1st, -0001
Kids Gardening Resources
Thu, Dec 1st, -0001
Kids Gardening Resources from University of Illinois Extension
A Look at Illinois Agriculture Illinois Agriculture in the Classroom
Thu, Dec 1st, -0001
A one pager with key facts about Illinois Agriculture
DownloadLetter from the Govenor in Support of Farm to School Governor Pat Quinn
Sat, Oct 1st, 2011
DownloadIowa
Practical Farms of Iowa WebsiteThu, Dec 1st, -0001
PFI research and development projects have resulted in a wide range of reports, publications and videos that you may find useful. We also offer links to a number of related organizations and the resources they have available.
The Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture Website The Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture
Wed, Nov 30th, -0001
The Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture provides links to groups doing work related to farm to school and sustainable agriculture.
Massachusetts
Massachussetts Farm to School Cookbook Amy CotlerFri, Dec 1st, 2006
The cookbook features 45 easy-to-follow recipes using Massachusetts crop, including value added produce such as peeled butternut squash and sliced carrots.
- Easy to prep recipes using dormant seasonal crop, such as potatoes, sweet potatoes and butternut squash
- Recipes have been school tested by Food Service Directors, cooks, and students in the schools themselves and designed for 50 to 100 servings.
- Nutritional analysis for each recipe
- Contacts for accessing farm produce
- Kid’s favorites include: Brown Rice Pilaf with Carrots, Chinese Green Beans, Tropical Cole Slaw and Garlic Mashed New Potatoes
DownloadMichigan
Agriculture Every Day VariousWed, Nov 30th, -0001
Agriculture Every Day wasa monthly web magazine, published in 2003, that highlighted the many ways the MDA and the state's agriculture industry enrich the lives of the people of Michigan.
Dairy Facts!
Mon, Jan 1st, 1996
Dairy Facts from the farm to you!
Mississippi
Expanding Farm to School in Mississippi: Analysis and Recommendations Nathan Rosenberg and Emily Broad LeibSat, Jun 18th, 2011
This policy report describes the potential for expanding Farm to School in Mississippi and recommends state and local actions to encourage its growth.
DownloadMontana
From Farms to Schools Fundraiser 2009 Final Report Aubree DurfeyTue, Dec 1st, 2009
Elementary students peddling lentils and winter squash door to door? Third-graders advocating for the benefits of eating locally-produced food? Such scenes became reality as six area elementary schools participated in the 2009 From Farms to Schools Fundraising Program. Gallatin Valley Farm to School administered the second annual offering of this “alternative school fundraising program” and, while doing so, addressed the Gallatin Valley’s desire to support Montana farmers, help local schools, and purchase beautiful holiday gifts for friends and family. The fundraising program, offered at Irving, Hawthorne, Gallatin Gateway, Whittier, Morning Star and Longfellow elementary schools, was a squashing success with total sales of $37,700 – forty percent of which goes to support a host of valuable school programs! This report provides the resources, tools, and information used in the fundraiser. Gallatin Valley Farm to School along with Montana Team Nutrition, encourages others to use this model as a healthier alternative to school fundraising.
DownloadK-12 School Garden Projects in Montana Mary Stein, MS and Juli Louttit, BS, Program Assistant for MT Team Nutrition Program
Tue, Dec 1st, 2009
This document lists and describes approximately forty school garden projects in Montana.
DownloadFarm to School Western Region - Snapshop and Contacts Stacey Sobell
Tue, Apr 10th, 2012
Regional Lead Agencies in eight regions of the country have been established to lead farm to school efforts in the states that comprise the regions. This document contacts basic information about the western region: Alaska, Hawai'i, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon and Washington.
DownloadNevada
Farm to School Western Region - Snapshop and Contacts Stacey SobellTue, Apr 10th, 2012
Regional Lead Agencies in eight regions of the country have been established to lead farm to school efforts in the states that comprise the regions. This document contacts basic information about the western region: Alaska, Hawai'i, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon and Washington.
DownloadWestern Nevada Specialty Crop Institute
Thu, Dec 1st, -0001
The Western Nevada College Specialty Crop Institute is an innovative program to provide training for alternative farming methods and for high-desert agriculture unique to Nevada and surrounding regions. The program combines classroom training with on-farm experiences. Instructors are selected on a local and national basis to include the best of industry experts, successful producers and educators.
Grow Your Own Nevada University of Nevada Extension
Thu, Dec 1st, -0001
~ Great harvests in Nevada ~ Grow Your Own, Nevada! is a state-wide University of Nevada Cooperative Extension (UNCE) program designed to help people all around the state discover the secrets to gardening in our high-desert climate through eight classes, delivered weekly in the fall, spring and summer.
New Hampshire
Growing Up With Farm to School Kate DonaldFri, Oct 1st, 2010
New York
Anticipating, Savoring, and Preserving the Harvest Fingerlakes Farm to CafeteriaMon, Oct 1st, 2012
Hands-on Training Workshops to Increase Local Farm Products in Cafeterias. This “How to” presents how Fingerlakes Farm to Cafeteria used several hands-on, farm produce preparation workshops to connect farms and cafeterias.
Oklahoma
Oklahoma Food Cooperative WebsiteWed, Nov 30th, -0001
We're a grassroots network uniting Oklahoma folks interested in sustainably produced, locally grown food. We bring the farmer's market to your front door. Our goal is a business that is environmentally sustainable, economically viable, and socially just.
Why Schools Should Serve Locally-Grown Foods Essay Contest Winners
Thu, Dec 1st, -0001
This essay contest is designed in include young people in a thoughtful discussion of solutions and current challenges facing farmers and consumers in our food system. The winning essays will focus on the issues and potential benefits involved in forming an Oklahoma Farm-to- School program in an individual school and/or statewide in many schools.
Oklahoma F2S Cooking: A Farm to School Cookbook Oklahoma State Department of Health,
Fri, Oct 21st, 2011
The Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) partnered with the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food & Forestry’s Farm to School Program, the Oklahoma Publishing Company and the Oklahoma State Department of Education along with various Oklahoma chefs, farmers, growers, and students and their families to support the Oklahoma Farm to School cookbook. The cookbook is intended to support ideals and recipes for serving locally grown fresh fruits and vegetables in our schools. The recipes are intended to offer healthier food choices to students, while making it affordable for school food service operations to buy local, therefore supporting the agricultural communities in Oklahoma.
Oregon
Oregon Farm to School and School Garden WebsiteThu, Dec 1st, -0001
The Oregon Department of Education has a new Farm To School and School Garden Web page - http://www.ode.state.or.us/search/results/?id=62.
Farm to School Western Region - Snapshop and Contacts Stacey Sobell
Tue, Apr 10th, 2012
Regional Lead Agencies in eight regions of the country have been established to lead farm to school efforts in the states that comprise the regions. This document contacts basic information about the western region: Alaska, Hawai'i, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon and Washington.
DownloadOregon Megan Kemple
Thu, Dec 1st, -0001
This is a list of Farm to School resource people in Oregon and the resources they can provide.
DownloadPennsylvania
Best Practices Manual Project PAWed, Nov 30th, -0001
Project PA: Best Practices Manual
Rhode Island
Urban Agriculture in Providence: Growing Our Community by Growing Good Food Urban Agriculture Policy Task ForceThu, Dec 1st, -0001
Expanding Produce Offerings in Rhode Islands Farm to School Program Kids First Rhode Island
Fri, Aug 10th, 2012
This graphic shows the increase in the diversity and volume of local foods served in Rhode Island schools between 2007-2010.
DownloadTennessee
Comfoodnet Virtual Farmers MarketMon, Jan 1st, 2007
An innovative, web-based approach to supplying locally grown fruits and vegetables to schools, institutions and businesses in the ComFoodNET operating region...a one-stop shop for local growers to list currently available crops and for food service buyers to purchase the best of the fresh from local farms.
Washington
Publications on WA Farm to School ProgramsThu, Dec 1st, -0001
Farm to School Publications from the WSDA Small Farms and Direct Marketing Program.
Farm to School Western Region - Snapshop and Contacts Stacey Sobell
Tue, Apr 10th, 2012
Regional Lead Agencies in eight regions of the country have been established to lead farm to school efforts in the states that comprise the regions. This document contacts basic information about the western region: Alaska, Hawai'i, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon and Washington.
DownloadWisconsin
Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction - Farm to School website DPIThu, Dec 1st, -0001
Make Farm to School Happen
Sun, Jan 1st, 2012
Run by the Michael Fields Agricultural Institute and partnering organizations, Make Farm to School Happen is a campaign to promote awareness of Farm-to-School initiatives across Wisconsin.
Health in Practice
Thu, Dec 1st, -0001
The Health in Practice website offers a variety of information on Farm to School in Wisconsin, including case studies and success stories; evaluations; and talking points to promote Farm to School.
Wyoming
EAT Wyoming: Producer Database UW Cooperative ExtensionThu, Dec 1st, -0001
County by county list of producers.
Eat Wyoming UW Cooperative Extension
Mon, Aug 8th, 2011
Listing of local producers by county. Online source as well as print booklet.
National
Guide to Serving Local Food on Your Menu Glynwood CenterMon, Apr 30th, 2007
The guide is a primer to help foodservice managers and directors, caterers, chefs, restaurateurs and others consider creative ways to incorporate local food products into almost any foodservice setting. Topics include where to begin, identifying sources of supply, developing relationships with farmers, working through existing distributors, and things to consider about the regional food system. Chefs, institutional purchasing agents, and others share their experience in short case studies within the 32-page guide.Available in PDF form. Printed copies will be provided with a charge for postage and handling. For more information, please contact info@glynwood.org or 845-265-3338.
DownloadFarm to School in the Northeast: Making the Connection for Healthy Kids and Healthy Farms Jennifer Wilkins, Heidi Mouillesseaux-Kunzman, Meredith Graham, Betsey Bacelli, and Martha Goodsell
Tue, May 1st, 2007
In 200 pages, Farm to School in the Northeast provides a step-by-step guide to making farm to school connections, walking practitioners through a process from planning, to implementation and evaluation. Each chapter includes a 'Toolbox' filled with a variety of resources from assessment and evaluation forms, to sample position announcements, contracts, and flowcharts designed to help keep you organized, confront inevitable challenges and celebrate successes as you work towards your farm to school objectives.
Counties and Local Food Systems Casey Dillon
Sun, Jul 1st, 2007
This 22-page report highlights four approaches that county governments can use to strengthen their local food systems: ?food policy councils, farm to school programs, infrastructure for local producers, and agriculture conservation easement programs. ?It includes an overview of methods and a fairly detailed case study for each approach.The Farm to School Case study is from the Missoula Farm to School Program, MT.
DownloadFarm-Raisers Vanessa Zajfen
Tue, Nov 6th, 2007
As rates of childhood obesity rise across the nation, schools are under pressure to serve healthy foods in cafeterias as well as establish policies to curb the availability of unhealthy foods and sodas on school campuses. Many schools have banned the sale of sodas and candy during school hours. However, outside of the cafeteria and vending machines, school fundraisers are another source of unhealthy foods on campus. Ninety-one percent of schools nationwide use fundraisers as a means to raise school funds, 81 percent of these schools sell cookie dough or greeting cards (Conners, 2006). There is a growing interest in exploring creative ways to raise funds without using unhealthy foods.
The Organic Chronicles
Mon, Jan 1st, 2007
This pamphlet conveys some basic principles of organic agriculture (and the ag-ecosystem) and is in a comic book format. There are English and Spanish versions of this publication, which is titled, The Organic Chronicles.
Greening the Plate of School Lunch Moira Beery
Wed, Dec 5th, 2007
Slides from a presentation of the whys and hows of starting a Farm to School program.
DownloadLessons and Impacts of the Farm to School Program Moira Beery
Wed, Dec 5th, 2007
This presentation explores the growth of Farm to School programs nationally and the impacts they have made.
DownloadWhat's For Lunch? Deborah Kane
Thu, May 8th, 2008
'What's for Lunch' provides a historical overview of school food and school gardens in the United States and details activities in the Portland Public Schools district. Interestingly enough, there was a time in our history when school food and school gardens were considered matters of national security.
DownloadChronology of Farm to School Debra Eschmeyer
Mon, Apr 28th, 2008
When did farm to school programs start? What were the major milestones? This brief factsheet lays out the history of farm to school.
DownloadFarm to School Programs - A Powerpoint presentation Anupama Joshi & Steph Larsen
Sun, Jun 1st, 2008
DownloadFarm to School Presentation Anupama Joshi
Thu, Jun 5th, 2008
Farm to School webinar introducing the National Farm to School Network and how farm to school programs work.
Applying Geographic Preference in Procurements for Child Nutrition Programs USDA: Food and Nutrition Service
Wed, Jul 9th, 2008
This memo provides information on a provision to encourage institutions operating Child Nutrition Programs to purchase unprocessed locally grown and locally raised agricultural products.
DownloadBid Local: Local Farm Projects Allowed in School Bids National Farm to School Network
Tue, Aug 5th, 2008
With the passage of the 2008 Farm Bill, schools can now use a local preference in big language. This handout describes the specifics as to what is included in unprocessed agricultural products.
DownloadChild Nutrition Reauthorization - Background National Farm to School Network
Thu, Nov 13th, 2008
DownloadSection 122 Farm to Cafeteria Language
Mon, Jan 12th, 2009
DownloadNourishing the Nation One Tray at a Time Community Food Security Coalition, National Farm to School Network, School Food FOCUS
Thu, Mar 19th, 2009
The policy recommendations in this document are solutions that are fair to American children, schools, farmers, food producers, and communities. The following lists the most effective ways Washington can rebalance the way American children eat in schools. We hope you will join us in our effort to nourish the nation, one tray at a time.
DownloadFarm to School Brochure Debra Eschmeyer
Thu, Mar 19th, 2009
Nourishing kids and communities: an introduction to farm to school
DownloadWellness Policy Tracking Made Easy
Fri, Jan 1st, 2010
Wellness policy implementation has just gotten easier! Action for Healthy Kids has added a monitoring component to its 8-step Wellness Policy Tool to help school districts improve nutrition and physical activity practices. This new, web-based tool is fully customizable and includes a scoring system to evaluate progress, and links to resources for areas of the policy that need improvement. 'Because this tool is organized in a linear fashion and fairly comprehensive, including coordinated school health components in addition to nutrition and physical activity, it makes it easy to consider ways to improve our implementation and monitoring plan,' says Jennie McCary, wellness coordinator for Albuquerque Public Schools and president-elect of the New Mexico Dietetic Association. Click here for the monitoring component of AFHK's Wellness Policy Tool, and to register for a webinar on March 23 or 26 to learn how to help your school monitor their wellness policy.
Is There a Relationship Between Physical Fitness and Academic Achievement: Positive Results From Pub
Thu, Jan 1st, 2009
This is a new feature on research supporting the link between kids' health and success in school. A new study in the January 2009 Journal of School Health found that increasing opportunities for kids to participate in physical activity, fitness and sports may help support their success in the classroom. While further research is required, there is mounting evidence that opportunities in school to help children meet the recommended one hour of physical activity per day not only will enhance their health but also may have a positive effect on learning and academic achievement. Click here to read the article.
Grow Your Own Food Made Easy: Nutritious Organic Produce from Your Own Garden - A Step-by-Step Guide
Sat, Jan 1st, 2005
Grow Your Own Food Made Easy is the only low-cost guide of its kind that integrates nutrition and gardening. Its nutritional content meets USDA nutritional guidelines, as well as those of the National Cancer Institute and the American Cancer Society. All gardening information is Earth-friendly and state-of-the-art. Some of you may already know about our 32-page composting guide Home Composting Made Easy. Over 1 million copies are in print; distributed by hundreds of municipalities, waste management districts, state governments, and educational organizations throughout North America! (Go to: www.homecompostingmadeeasy.com). We believe that Grow Your Own Food Made Easy is a publication and idea whose time has come, for the millions of people who are now just getting into food gardening (or re-dedicating time and energy to it) as a need for food and financial security. It is perfect for any organizations, educators or businesses dedicated to food security, food independence and food sustainability, be it for direct distribution and/or for fundraising. Please contact us for special availability to non-retailers. You can view GYOF, including 18 sample pages (.pdf) at www.onesanctuary.com. You can also email us at peace@onesanctuary.com.
10 Reasons to Buy Local Food
Tue, Oct 1st, 2002
A one page document that explains how local food...tastes better, is better for you, preserves genetic diversity, is GMO-free, supports local farm family, builds community, preserves open space, keeps your taxes in check, supports a clean environment and benefits wildlife, and is about the future.
DownloadA New Way to Look at Food and Agriculture: Community Food Systems
Thu, Jan 1st, 2004
This one page document makes the idea of sustainable community food systems not only accessible, but also desirable. Looking at food and agriculture issue through the lens of community food security requires one to look at the whole food system and understand how each part affects the whole food security of a given community.
DownloadCooking With Kids
Sat, Jan 1st, 2005
An order form for various curricular resources K-6, including guides and a DVD.
DownloadFarm to School 101: Farm Aid Toolkit Farm Aid
Mon, Jun 1st, 2009
Nachos and cheese, French toast sticks, days and days of chicken nuggets. Is this what we want to nourish our children's growing minds? Summer may seem a strange time to think about the food our kids eat in school, but it's actually a great time to consider Farm to School programs. Check out Farm Aid's Farm to School 101 Toolkit for information on starting one in your area.
Finding Land to Farm: Six Ways to Secure Farmland (Encontrando Tierra para Trabajar: Seis Maneras de Kendra Johnson, Rex Dufour, and Marisa Alcorta
Wed, Jul 1st, 2009
This publication, a collaboration between CA Farmlink and NCAT, highlights some common ways to lease or own land. It follows a farmer as he talks to other farmers about how they accessed land. It outlines important considerations about each of these leasing options and paths to ownership. There are 6 pages of resources listing land-linking organizations as well as websites, publications and other organizations that will be helpful to farmers seeking land to farm. Elements of a good lease are also included. Click here for the English version, and click here for the Spanish version.
Farm-to-School Factsheet
Tue, May 1st, 2007
Farm-to-School is an integrated program developing in schools across the country to teach kids about the cycles of life from seed to table. View this factsheet to see overall project goals, components of a farm-to-school program, and CAFF's farm-to-school activities.
USDA Official Highlights Support for Local Food Systems Deputy Secretary Kathleen A. Merrigan
Wed, Aug 26th, 2009
Deputy Secretary of Agriculture, Kathleen Merrigan, explores the benefits of local food systems in a USDA memo.
DownloadSchools Gardens and Food Service Bon Appetit Management Company
Tue, Sep 22nd, 2009
Bon Appetit has developed a guide for aspiring student farmers to help them build good business relationships with their best potential customers-the college food service providers that are right in their backyards. The guide will be made available to students in garden groups all over the country and on the company's website. www.circleofresponsibility.com/student-garden-guide
Small Farm / School Meals Initiaitve - Town Hall Meetings USDA Food & Nutrition Services
Wed, Mar 1st, 2000
A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Bring Small Farms and Local Schools Together
DownloadEat Smart?Farm Fresh! USDA Food & Nutrition Services
Thu, Dec 1st, 2005
A Guide to Buying and Serving Locally-Grown Produce in School Meals
DownloadSpeciality Crop Block Grant Program Funded Farm to School Projects
Wed, Mar 10th, 2010
This is a listing of the Speciality Crop Block Grant Program Funded Farm to School Projects.
DownloadThe Whole Plate: A Return to Real Food Jane Marie Siemon
Thu, Apr 1st, 2010
The Whole Plate is composed of 4 Units, which stand alone and also work sequentially: Unit 1 - What is food?, Unit 2 - Nourishing People and Planet, Unit 3 - Learning to Love Organic, and Unit 4 - The Spice of Life. These Units have been tailored for young adults, but have also been successfully used with full-blown adults. In addition to the main Units, there are 2 mini-Units that address specific topics in nutrition: Wild Foods and Nutrition for Pregnancy.
DownloadBalance My Day™ Nutrition Education Curriculum Healthy Kids Challenge
Fri, Apr 22nd, 2011
This engaging, fun, ready to use nutrition and physical activity lessons for K-8th graders include goal setting, parent tip sheets, worksheets, student assessment and 12 Food Skills taste and learn activities for the classroom and cafeteria. The school nutrition services section is packed with ideas for marketing school nutrition. Aligned with HECAT (Health Education Curriculum Analysis Tool) Healthy Eating Behavior outcomes and standards, sample pages, content listing and order form can be viewed at http://www.healthykidschallenge.com/catalog/26
California
The San Francisco Farm-to-School Report: Results from the 2003 Feasibility Study Rimkus, Rimkus, Paula Jones, and Fernando OnaThu, Jan 1st, 2004
DownloadOrange County menu of Options Vanessa Zajfen
Fri, May 9th, 2008
The following are new farm to school programming opportunities for Orange County. The farm to school programs suggested below have been specifically created for Orange County schools based on the local farm resources.
DownloadFood Access & Distribution Solutions: 5 Strategies for Southern California Vanessa Zajfen
Sat, Mar 1st, 2008
Based on the report Fresh Food Distribution Models for the Greater Los Angeles Region: Barriers and Opportunities to Facilitate and Scale Up the Distribution of Fresh Fruits and Vegetables, The Center for Food & Justice has developed 5 strategies which attempt to address some fundamental and basic issues with the distribution of locally grown foods. CFJ will be working throughout the next few years to assist project partners and other organizations to implement these strategies in the Southern California region.
DownloadHarvest Health-San Diego Vanessa Zajfen
Mon, Jun 29th, 2009
Colorado
Healthy Kids and Healthy Economies:Results from the 2006 Farm to School Survey of Colorado Food Serv Colorado Institute of Public Policy and the Rocky Mountain Farmers Union Farm to School WorkgroupSun, Jan 1st, 2006
DownloadLa Plata County Food Assessment Growing Partners
Sat, Oct 1st, 2005
The Growing Partners of Southwest Colorado works to promote a more sustainable local food system. In October of 2005, the USDA awarded the partnership with funding to complete a yearlong food study to assess food security in La Plata County.
Healthy Kids, Healthy Farms : Results from the 2008 Colorado Producer Survey The Colorado Institute of Public Policy, Western SARE, Rocky Mountain Farmers Union, Colorado Depart
Fri, Oct 10th, 2008
DownloadConnecticut
Statutory Reference regarding Farm To SchoolSat, Jul 1st, 2006
Public Act 06-135 Codified: Sec. 22-38 There is established, within the Department of Agriculture, a farm to school program. In consultation with the Department of Education, the program shall facilitate and promote the sale of Connecticut-grown farm products by farms to school districts, individual schools and other educational institutions under the jurisdiction of the Department of Education.
DownloadFlorida
Florida Farm to School Case Study Compiled by Alison HarmonSun, Feb 1st, 2004
The New North Florida Cooperative began by selling farm fresh produce to 13 schools in Gadsden County, Florida. In six years, the marketing efforts have increased so that the Cooperative now sells to 15 school districts in Florida, Georgia and Alabama. Through these districts, they are serving 300,000 students! The farmers focus on producing three to four main items, on a seasonal basis, and sell to schools year-round. The items are incorporated into menu planning, generally as a side dish or as a fresh fruit dessert. The Cooperative has developed a good reputation by providing high-quality produce, prompt deliveries, fair prices and for their courteous professionalism. They refer to this as 'relationship marketing'. The positive word-of-mouth has been very effective in opening the door to the program in other school districts.
Presentation on New North Florida Marketing Cooperative
Mon, Jan 1st, 2007
DownloadGeorgia
Chef to School workshop Georgia Organics and Mendez FoundationWed, Feb 25th, 2009
When students have opportunities to grow food and taste fresh fruits and vegetables, they are more likely to adopt life-long healthy diets. Chefs can play a major role in this process by providing hands-on taste testing and cooking demonstrations for students featuring local foods. This training toolkit will provide chefs with a better understanding how to deliver information to children and best practices in working in non-traditional cooking environments such as classrooms, gardens and auditoriums.
Hawaii
REPORT TO THE 2010 LEGISLATURE: Farm to School Feasability Report of Hawaii University of HawaiiTue, Dec 15th, 2009
This report is divided into three sections ? the current status of farm-to-school programs in Hawai?i; the feasibility of farm-to-school programs; and concluding remarks and opportunities for change. Appended to the report are the stakeholder inputs on the feasibility of farm-to-school programs in Hawai?i (Appendix I) and a listing of existing state-wide farm-to-school programs nationally (Appendix II).
DownloadIllinois
Food Fun - From Apples to Zucchini University of Illinois ExtensionSun, Jan 1st, 2006
Louisiana
Stepping Up to the Plate: Transforming School Food in New Orleans Alison HestonMon, Nov 1st, 2010
This report by the New Orleans Food Policy Advisory Committee contains policy recommendations and actions steps at the federal, state, and local level for improving all food in schools in our area. The recommendations focus on federal and state feeding programs, food quality, wellness policies, school kitchen infrastructure, workforce and small business development, buying from regional farmers, and competitive foods. Elements of Farm to School are weaved throughout the recommendations.
Maine
Hancock County Farm to School Directory Heather Albert-KnoppThu, Mar 1st, 2007
A directory of Maine farms that are interested in selling to schools in Hancock County.
DownloadMichigan
Purchasing Michigan Products: A Step By Step Guide Betty Izumi and Colleen MattsTue, Jan 1st, 2008
Developed with input from an advisory committee and school food service directors like you, this publication includes useful information and practical tools on incorporating Michigan foods into your school meals program.
Missouri
Cape Girardeau School District - A Case Study Mary Hendrickson, University of MissouriThu, Jun 1st, 2006
Cape Girardeau School District's Experience with Missouri Foods. Based on questions and answers with Lisa Elfrink, Nutrition Services Coordinator and experiences with other food service coordinators.
DownloadBuilding School Foodservice Demand for Products Grown, Raised and Manufactured in Missouri Cynthia Haskins
Mon, Jan 1st, 2001
DownloadMontana
Farm to School Fact Sheet for Montanta Sleeping Giant Citizens CouncilTue, Dec 1st, 2009
The basics of Farm to School for Montana citizens: healthy kids and healthy farms.
DownloadNew Mexico
The New Mexico Agriculture in the Classroom Program New Mexico Farm and Livestock BureauThu, Jan 1st, 2009
S
ponsored by the New Mexico Farm and Livestock BureauNew York
Why Garden in New York State Schools - A powerpoint presentation Department of Horticulture, Cornell UniversityFri, Jan 1st, 2010
If you're looking for ways to share the excitement of school gardening with other teachers and educators; if you need to convince your administrators of the benefits of beginning a garden in your school; and if you're looking for research-based justification of why
gardening is so important, this presentation will be useful to you. It is designed as a guided presentation, or to run on its own at an exhibit.
DownloadOklahoma
Farm to School Program Great Plains RC&DThu, Jan 16th, 2003
Local grown & milled whole wheat flour being used as a product in the farm to school program.
5-A-Day in 5 Years
Thu, Jan 1st, 2004
A flyer from a campaign from the Kerr Center and the Community Food Projects Program of the USDA Cooperative State Research Education and Extension Service (CSREES).
DownloadBusting a Myth: Farmers' Market Produce is Fresh and Affordable Kerr Center and CSREES
Fri, Jun 12th, 2009
Produce items grown by Three Springs Farm and sold at the Tulsa Cherry Street Farmers' Market in 2005 were either cheaper than or comparably priced* to produce sold at Tulsa supermarkets.
DownloadPennsylvania
Kindergarten Initiative Evaluation Report The Food TrustThu, Feb 1st, 2007
DownloadRhode Island
Rhode Island Farm to School Brochure Kids FirstFri, May 1st, 2009
DownloadVermont
VT Farm to School: A guide for Using Local Food in Schools VT Food Education Every DayMon, Jan 1st, 2007
Includes step by step process for starting local purchasing in schools; success stories about farm-to-cafeteria relationships (K-12); seasonal recipes and menu ideas. Contact VT FEED for copies
Analysis of School Food and Local Purchasing in Vermont Schools, 2003-2004
Wed, Dec 1st, 2004
This report is a first attempt to quantify current, and potential, local food purchasing by schools in Vermont during the 2003-2004 school year. A literature review and situational analysis of other economic analyses of school food purchasing nationwide was undertaken in the beginning of this report. This will provide a context for this Vermont local purchasing analysis. The micro-analysis of the study group (ten schools and the largest Vermont school district with nine schools), offered an opportunity to, in detail, analyze the purchasing of fresh produce during the 2003-2004 school year. A macro-analysis was accomplished through interviewing distributors which currently deliver to Vermont schools.
DownloadFarm-to-School Purchasing Builds Social Equity in Vermont Benjamin King, Jane Kolodinsky, Erin Roche, Linda Berlin, Abbie Nelson, Kim Norris
Thu, Mar 19th, 2009
Statewide data from Vermont show that food service providers in low-income school districts are no less likely to purchase local foods than food service directors in high-income school districts.
DownloadWashington
Map of Washington Farmers Who Sell Directly to Consumers Giles O'Dell, Melissa Roberts, Shonie Schlot zhauer & Jackson SillarsSat, Jan 1st, 2005
This Farm Map is a listing of farms in Thurston County that sell their goods directly to consumers. It's a tool for making that direct connection; to help you find products grown, raised and made by your neighbors.
DownloadCalifornia
Harvest of the Month Network for a Healthy CaliforniaThu, Nov 17th, 2011
Harvest of the Month provides materials and resources to support healthy food choices through increased access and consumption of fruits and vegetables as well as encourage daily physical activity. It uniquely supports core curricular areas through exploration and study. Harvest of the Month presents a strategic opportunity to bring together the classroom, cafeteria, home and community to promote a common goal and healthier habits for students, especially those in low resource schools.
Iowa
The packet to initiate your own Farm to School Chapter can be found by clicking here. Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land StewardshipThu, Dec 1st, -0001
Wisconsin
Toolkit for Producers Center for Integrated Agricultural SystemsSun, Jan 1st, 2012
The toolkit for producers is an aid for producers interested in selling to farm to school programs. The toolkit includes information on bidding; marketing to your farm-to-school customer; and how to establish and maintain relationships.
On-Farm Food Safety Guide (DATCP) DATCP
Sun, Jan 1st, 2012
DATCP offers resources to producers for creating and maintaining a food safety plan and processes for accreditation and auditing. The website guides producers through state and federal regulations, and it provides a wealth of resources and tools.
California
Nourish CaliforniaMon, Apr 11th, 2011
Nourish California is a bold, new initiative designed to increase food literacy and build healthy schools and communities. Providing free educational resources (video, curriculum, website) for use in California’s schools, the nonprofit program supports educators in opening a meaningful conversation about food and sustainability. Nourish California’s vision is to build a statewide network of good food advocates and share innovative ideas and best practices. K-12 teachers, school administrators, farm to school and garden coordinators, food service staff, health professionals, and nonprofit support providers are invited to join the network and receive a free DVD and companion curriculum
California
Harvest Health-Los Angeles Vanessa ZajfenThu, May 28th, 2009
California
Let's Move Cities and Towns: Toolkit for Local OfficialsTue, Mar 1st, 2011
Developed by Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move! campaign, this toolkit encourages mayors and elected officials to take leadership in developing a long-term, sustainable and holistic approach to fighting childhood obesity in cities and towns across the United States.