Hudson Mohawk Resource Conservation & Development Council will share experiences in running a farm-to-school program to get school cafeterias to purchase local, farm-raised food, in hopes of encouraging similar activities around the state.  Project activities include creation of a marketing/purchasing guide and directory for farms and schools, hosting a series of educational and networking events to provide information and connect farmers and schools, and offer a mini-grant program of marketing funds for farmers to promote their farm and local agriculture in the school.
The Hudson Mohawk RC&D reports finding the most successful farm to school programs involve fruit orchards, since they often have more experience with direct marketing, ability to deliver products, and storage crops available during the school year.  Additionally, project leaders said, orchard owners often can sell to schools more profitable value-added items, such as cider and fresh doughnuts.

Hudson Mohawk RC&D is a nonprofit organization that operates in cooperation with USDA Natrual Resources Conservation Services and is dedicated to environmental stewardship and economic development in agriculture.

For more information about the Hudson Mohawk RC&D Council, click here