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Local and Regional Food Systems


Local food is food that is grown within a reasonable distance from where it is eaten. Exactly how local food is defined is as varied as the consumers that buy it. The commonality amongst local food consumers is a commitment to purchase food that ensures social, economic, and environmental sustainability. Buying local food reduces the number of "food miles" between farm and plate, and helps to keep agricultural profits in the local economy. This website offers resources and tools for understanding the place of local food in the global food system, how producers can participate in this movement, and examples of successful local food systems that secure fresh foods for their communities.

Arrow Icon Food Hubs

Arrow Icon Why Local Foods?

Arrow Icon Urban Agriculture

Arrow Icon Local Marketing, Processing, and Distribution

Arrow Icon Beginning Farmer

Arrow Icon Policy and Food Access

Arrow Icon Resources on Local Foods

LocalFoods directory icon Local Foods Directory A number of organizations and agencies throughout the U.S. are trying to help agricultural producers connect with customers by compiling directories of local food sources that help buyers find goods and growers find markets. This resource offers listings for local food directories and promotional programs, searchable by state.   GrowMontana Logo GrowMontana A broad-based coalition whose common purpose is to promote community economic development policies that support sustainable Montana-owned food production, processing, and distribution, and that improve all of our citizens' access to Montana foods.

 

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This page was last updated on: August 5, 2015