A statewide survey is being conducted through Dec. 18 to learn more about the needs of local producers and food systems.
North Dakota farmers, ranchers and food business owners are encouraged to complete a survey to help state and local agencies better understand the needs of local producers and food systems. The online survey, available at www.farrms.org/nc-rfbc, is open now through Dec. 18.
“The results of the survey will ultimately help support a more resilient, diverse and competitive food system, which is foundational to a good quality of life for rural North Dakotans,” says Josh Kramer, executive vice president and general manager of the North Dakota Association of Rural Electric Cooperatives (NDAREC). NDAREC, through its North Dakota Rural Electric Cooperative (NDREC) Foundation, assisted in the development of the survey, which is being facilitated by the North Central U.S. Department of Agriculture Regional Food Business Center.
Questions in the survey will glean information about barriers to market access for small- and mid-sized producers and what’s being produced in North Dakota and in what capacity. The survey will also gauge interest for participation in a regional food hub.
Survey results will inform strategies to develop needed infrastructure, like processing facilities, storage and warehousing solutions. NDREC Foundation staff will lead the development of a statewide action plan, slated for completion in the first quarter of 2024, as the technical advisor on the initiative.
Other local partners include North Dakota Farmers Union, FARRMS (Foundation for Agricultural and Rural Resources Management and Sustainability), regional development councils and the N.D. Department of Agriculture.
Visit www.farrms.org/nc-rfbc to complete the survey through Dec. 18.
