(KNZA)--The Kansas Department of Agriculture is taking over the administration of “Our Local Food,” a project developed by the Whiting-based Kansas Rural Center.
Kansas Rural Center Executive Director Julie Mettenburg calls it “thrilling” to see the program taken up by the state agriculture agency, saying it’s an important next step in growing local foods infrastructure in the state, as farmers, consumers and food businesses receive additional support in growing local food economies and businesses.
The Kansas Rural Center will continue to work in local foods issues, continuing its current role as a partner in Kansas State University’s Rural Grocery initiative.
Beginning January 1, the Kansas Department of Ag will take over ownership, and administration, of the Our Local Foods brandmark, promotional materials, and website. KDA will also assume over administration of ks-farmers markets-dot org.
Purchase of the programs from the Kansas Rural Center is fundeed through a U.S. Department of Agriculture Specialty Crop Block Grant to promote growth in the production, consumption and sales of fresh fruits and vegetables.
The centerpiece of Our Local Food is the website ourlocalfoodks.org, which serves as an online “food hub” for Kansans looking to sell or purchase locally grown produce and other farm goods. This year it expanded statewide.
The regional chapters will be phased out of the program, and attention turned to recruiting producers across the state. Interested consumers, producers or food businesses may sign-up for the program by visiting ourlocalfood ks.org.
© Many Signals Communications
MOST VIEWED STORIES
Three former Atchison Co employees arrested on felonies
One hospitalized, one jailed, after Atchison attack
Fentanyl find nets four in two Atchison cases
Services set for Effingham woman killed in crash
Barricaded fugitive arrested in Jackson County
Two file to challenge local legislator
Four injured in Richardson Co rollover crash
Support sought for fire ravaged family
Fatal Atchison apt fire investigation continues
USD 415 board select new member
U.S. 36 work in Doniphan Co to impact motorists
Results from SE Nebraska contested Primary Elections
Armed felon found, arrested, in Jackson Co
Date set for signals switch at Hiawatha intersection
State Board approves land transfer agreements
Flags to fly half staff Wednesday across KS
Ozawkie man facing multiple child sex charges
LATEST STORIES
St. Joseph teacher arrested for student sex crimes
Jefferson Co readies for Co Fair season
MO man injured in KS weather-related crash
Ozawkie man facing multiple child sex charges
4th candidate files for local KS House seat
Public health advisory issued for local lake
Four injured in Richardson Co rollover crash