Boosting Local Agriculture: Wisconsin Agriculture Department to Launch Producer Directory

Thursday, July 6, 2023

The Wisconsin Farmers Union (WFU) is partnering with the Wisconsin Local Food Purchase Assistance (WI LFPA) program to launch an innovative tool designed to strengthen connections between farmers and their communities. This groundbreaking initiative aims to foster resilient local food systems and supply chains, ultimately expanding access to fresh, locally sourced foods across the state.

The newly introduced Local Food Directory allows farmers to create profiles and list their products, while hunger-relief organizations, institutional purchasers, meal programs, and community members can easily locate producers in their regions. By facilitating these vital connections, the directory promotes community engagement and supports the growth of healthy, sustainable food options.

Farmers Michael and Angie Lungren from Rocky Run Farm in Kendall enthusiastically participate in the WI LFPA program, supplying fresh vegetables to Neighbor for Neighbor, Inc. food pantry in Tomah. The couple expressed their excitement about the directory, recognizing its potential to broaden their reach and share their passion for organic, nutritious produce with a wider audience.

To ensure the directory's success, WFU is actively seeking a diverse range of farms to join this transformative platform. Forrest Humphrey, WFU Local Foods Organizer and directory lead, emphasizes the importance of robust social networks in strengthening rural communities.

The Wisconsin Local Food Purchase Assistance Program, established through a cooperative agreement between the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Marketing Service, aims to bolster local food systems, support Wisconsin farmers, and provide fresh, nutritious food to underserved communities. The program collaborates with various stakeholders, including Marbleseed, Wisconsin Food Hub Cooperative, and Wisconsin Farmers Union, to facilitate program development, logistics coordination, and food procurement from local producers.

For more information about the project and how to participate, visit https://www.wilocalfood.org/ Contact Forrest Humphrey at fhumphrey@wisconsinfarmersunion.com or 715-450-9179 for inquiries regarding the WI LFPA program or the Local Foods Directory.

Photo Credit: Wisconsin DOA