(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 administration of ks-farmers markets.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.