Progress 07/01/07 to 06/30/13
Outputs
Target Audience: Consistent with efforts to promote place-named products in Michigan, initial discussions were understaken with a new group of hops growers in Michigan. The purpose of these discussions was to encourage consideration of creating place-named criteria for promoting their product. This activity was one part of a broader program under the umbrella of the newly created American Origin Products Foundation and the American Origin Products Association. Changes/Problems: An extended medical leave from the university starting in March 2010 and the slow recovery well into mid-2011 dramatically curtained all field research and required the cancellation of at least one research activity on farmers markets. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? Several PhD dissertation and Master thesis research projects were completed. Some of these included: PhD research on Hispanic produce farmers and marketing in Michigan, first generation farmers, value-based value chains, based on a case study of incubator kitchens in Michigan, and artisanl food processing in Michigan. Two supervised Masters theses included a study of farmer perceptions of the long-term effects of glyphosate on soil quality and a study of the Sysco-Grand Rapids program "Buy Fresh, Buy Local." In addition, two internationallyfocused supervised dissertations included one at MSU on urban farming in Senegal, and a second at the University of California-Santa Cruz on the introduction of Bt cotton in Burkina Faso. A Collaborative Agreement between MSU-SupAgro-M (the Agronomic School in Montpellier France) was signed. This agreement facilitates the exchange of faculty and students between the two institutions. A USDA International Science and Education project, "A Michigan-French Partnership to Strengthen the Global Competence of Students, Researchers and Extension Educators in Agriculture and Tourism" was awarded. This will help create a Food and Agriculture Innovation Curriculum, and collaborative, applied research programs in value-added food, agriculture, and agri-tourism. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? The results of work previously completed on Michigan PA 232 groups were shared with the Michigan Organic Advisory Committee. In addition, and in collaboration with colleagues in the Institute for Food and Agricultural Standards (IFAS) at Michigan State University, studies on the role of commodity standards were undertaken with the Michigan Bean Commission and the Michigan Potato Commission. Participation in the development of a research proposal in collaboration with members of the NE-1012 project, “Sustaining Local Food Systems in a Globalizing Environment: Forces, Responses, Impacts” helped to put all of the work under this goal into a national perspective. Based on the experience with designing and implementing the survey, the Michigan Field Office of the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) requested assistance in designing the "organic section" of the Census of Agriculture, and developing an expanded list of questions related to organic agriculture for an upcoming survey. Complementary work included assistance in developing a website to improve an understanding of first generation farmers. This work started with the design and implementation of an assessment survey of all MIFFS (Michigan Integrated Food and Farming Systems) that was presented in a poster, "It Takes a Network: Building Integrated Food and Farming Systems in Michigan" at the 1st Annual SARE Conference. Based on this work, the Michigan Agricultural Experiment State awarded a grant to design and prepare an organizational resources and issues inventory of selected MI commodity (PA 232) groups. The work with MIFFS created a basis for identifying and clarifying the policy and technology issues of Michigan organic growers: participation in, and presentations to state chapter meetings of the Organic Growers of Michigan in order to identify their policy concerns, and participation on the Board of the Michigan Organic Food and Farm Alliance.The work contributed to writing Michigan's public act on organic agriculture and it stimulated key Michigan commodity groups to think more critically about the importance of agri-food standards to their programs. In a similar way, the results of discussions with fresh produce wholesalers and brokers has led to a series of discussions with growers and buyers about the feasibility of establishing farmer-aggregators who can help to facilitate sales into retail markets. This work led to a 2004 survey of market managers with plans during the first part of 2004 to convene focus groups of market managers/masters and eventually the development of the NC-SARE grant noted above. The farmers’ market research results encouraged several farmer-vendors to re-consider their marketing strategy and choice of markets for the 2008 season. The results of the 2006 Survey of Organic Agriculture in Michigan were disseminated and shared in several ways. The survey report was distributed to all MSU Extension offices in the state, all commodity and agriculture groups in the state and several government agencies, government-supported boards, and citizens who requested copies. The results were used in presentations for training Michigan NASS field enumerators and in a presentation during the 2007 Great Lakes Fruit & Vegetable Expo. Finally, the results were shared with wider audiences via radio interviews (Michigan Farm Network), and numerous articles in trade publications and local newspapers. In addition the survey results were discussed during the 2008 Michigan Organic Conference with the MI Department of Agriculture, presented at the first Michigan Organic Reporting Conference and reviewed with food distribution industry representatives at the 2008 meeting of the Sustainable Food Lab in Santa Cruz, CA. An overview of "Sustainable Financing and Agricultural Research in sub-Saharan Africa," was prepared and discussed at a joint meeting hosted by U.S. Agency for International Development and the World Bank Special Program for African Agricultural Research (SPAAR). An overview of "Sustainable Financing and Agricultural Research in sub-Saharan Africa," was prepared and discussed at a joint meeting hosted by U.S. Agency for International Development and the World Bank Special Program for African Agricultural Research (SPAAR). What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?
Nothing Reported
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Goal 1 identified and assessed the opportunities for Michigan farmers to pursue organic and place-based production and marketing strategies. With colleagues in the Institute for Food and Agricultural Standards (IFAS) at Michigan State University, studies on the role of commodity standards were undertaken with the Michigan Bean Commission and the Michigan Potato Commission. In collaboration with the MSU Computational Ecology and Visualization Laboratory, a Socio-ecological and Geographic Analysis program was designed to offer new and productive ways to think about the key interrelationships among otherwise individual policy measures and to develop new insights on sustainable food and agriculture systems in Michigan. This project provided a tool for thinking more holistically about issues of farmland preservation and land use, as well as alternative (and organic) farming. Building on these projects, two research grants will helped to understand more specifically some of the constraints facing organic growers and those seeking to transition from conventional to organic production. As part of a special USDA Sustainable Agriculture grant to MSU, one project between MSU and the MI Organic Food & Farm Alliance (MOFFA) studied the perceptions of conventional fruit and vegetable growers about making the transtion to organic farming. A second multidisciplinary project funded by the USDA Organic Transitions program focused on understanding the marketing channels available for organic vegetables and grains in Michigan. The first statewide survey of organic agriculture was completed with funding from a special USDA Sustainable Agriculture grant to MSU. To supplement the results of this survey, the Michigan data set from the 3rd Biennial Organic Farmers Survey administered by the Organic Farming Research Foundation (OFRF) was acquired. Funding from the USDA/NCR-SARE program allowed for the design and implementation of a study of the costs and returns of selling in farmers markets in Michigan. Participation in the development of a research proposal in collaboration with members of the NE-1012 project, “Sustaining Local Food Systems in a Globalizing Environment: Forces, Responses, Impacts” helped to put all of the work under this goal into a national perspective. Goal 2 sought to continue and expand a regular survey and census of Michigan organic agriculture. Although it was not possible to continue an annual organic survey, the list of certified organic farming and processing operations in Michigan for 2007 and for 2008 was updated based on responses from the certifying agencies registered with the MI Department of Agriculture. Complementary work included assistance in developing a website to improve an understanding of first generation farmers. Goal 3 focused on identifying and assessing the public policy and program opportunities for promoting Michigan organic and place-based agriculture. This work started with the design and implementation of an assessment survey of all MIFFS (Michigan Integrated Food and Farming Systems) that was presented in a poster, "It Takes a Network: Building Integrated Food and Farming Systems in Michigan" at the 1st Annual SARE Conference. Based on this work, the Michigan Agricultural Experiment State awarded a grant to design and prepare an organizational resources and issues inventory of selected MI commodity (PA 232) groups. The work with MIFFS created a basis for identifying and clarifying the policy and technology issues of Michigan organic growers: participation in, and presentations to state chapter meetings of the Organic Growers of Michigan in order to identify their policy concerns, and participation on the Board of the Michigan Organic Food and Farm Alliance.The work contributed to writing Michigan's public act on organic agriculture and it stimulated key Michigan commodity groups to think more critically about the importance of agri-food standards to their programs. In a similar way, the results of discussions with fresh produce wholesalers and brokers has led to a series of discussions with growers and buyers about the feasibility of establishing farmer-aggregators who can help to facilitate sales into retail markets. This work led to a 2004 survey of market managers with plans during the first part of 2004 to convene focus groups of market managers/masters and eventually the development of the NC-SARE grant noted above. The farmers’ market research results encouraged several farmer-vendors to re-consider their marketing strategy and choice of markets for the 2008 season. Goal 4 focused on the development of a transatlantic collaborative research program on organic and place-based agricultural and rural development strategies. Under this goal, an overview of "Sustainable Financing and Agricultural Research in sub-Saharan Africa," was prepared and discussed at a joint meeting hosted by U.S. Agency for International Development and the World Bank Special Program for African Agricultural Research (SPAAR). As part of a grant from the National Science Foundation for the project, "Making the Grade: Science and Values in Agricultural Grades and Standards," a study of cotton in Mali was undertaken. In addition, the Michigan Agricultural Experiment Station supported a survey to learn how the policies and activities of several, European-based international organizations affect the grades and standards for agricultural commodities. Based on work during a sabbatical year at the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), a 3-year seven-country comparative study of farmer groups and policy-making in sub-Saharan Africa was undertaken. An MSU study abroad program, Ecology, Culture and Politics of Food in France, was used to establish a collaborative research relationship with researchers at the French Center for International Agricultural Research and Development (CIRAD) and to develop an exchange agreement between MSU and SupAgro-Montpellier. Funding for an exploratory visit with organic agricultural researchers affiliated with the Euro-League for Life Sciences and North America (ELLSNA) led to a position as a Fulbright Distinguished Chair with the Organic Institute at the University of Natural Resources and Applied Life Sciences (BOKU) in Vienna, Austria. This position helped to identify numerous opportunities for expanded trans-Atlantic research relationships and exchanges in the area of organic farming policy, place-based products and regional development, and in the area of trans-disciplinary studies.
Publications
- Type:
Book Chapters
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2012
Citation:
Bernhard Freyer and Jim Bingen. The Transformation to Organic: Insights from Practice Theory. In Matthew Reed, ed., Organic Food and Agriculture New Trends and Developments in the Social Sciences. InTech: Intechweb.org. (www.intechopen.com). Pp. 169-196.
- Type:
Books
Status:
Under Review
Year Published:
2013
Citation:
Bernhard Freyer and Jim Bingen. Editors. Re-Thinking Organic Food and Farming in a Changing World. Springer.
- Type:
Book Chapters
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2012
Citation:
Jim Bingen and David Gibbon. Early Farming Systems Research and Extension Experience in Africa and Possible Relevance for FSR in Europe. In Ika Darnhofer, David Gibbon, Benoit Dedieu. Eds. Farming Systems Research into the 21th Century: The New Dynamic. Springer: 47-70
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Progress 01/01/12 to 12/31/12
Outputs
OUTPUTS: In collaboration with a colleague, Dr. Bernhard Fryer, Director of the Institute of Organic Agriculture, University of Natural Resources and Applied Life Sciences (BOKU), Vienna, Austria, a proposal for an edited volume entitled, Rethinking Organic Food and Farming in a Changing World, was accepted by Springer. Drawing upon this observation, this collection of papers was compiled from responses to a call for papers to contribute to a discussion of the principles and fundamental assumptions of organic practices at the 2011 annual meetings of AFHVS, ASFS, and SAFN Societies, "Food and Ag Under the Big Sky" held in Missoula, Montana. This call asked for empirically grounded discussions that focus our attention on core principles (i.e. IFOAM, ontology's, ethics, philosophies) and practices of organic food and farming. We specifically solicited papers that draw upon clearly articulated and well-defined conceptual frameworks that might offer new insights into organic practices (i.e., conventions, practices, institutions, political economy). The collection of 14 papers is divided into four sections: New Perspectives on Enduring Issues; Standards and Certification; Markets and Consumers; and, Organic as a Social Movement. This collection will be published in 2013. PARTICIPANTS: The principal collaborator on this project since 2010 has been Dr. Bernhard Freyer, Director, Institute of Organic Agriculture, University of Natural Resources and Applied Life Sciences (BOKU), Vienna, Austria. In addition to collaborating on a book project, we jointly supervise the Ph.D. research of four graduate students at BOKU. TARGET AUDIENCES: The target audience for our collaborative work is an academic audience of scholars and students. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Given my need to modify my work schedule following an extended period of hospitalization and recovery in 2010 and 2011, the Michigan fieldwork that was once central to this project had to significantly curtailed.
Impacts
The major impact of the work over this period arises from the opportunity that our book project has provided to younger scholars to publish their research and discuss a range of issues related to organic farming.
Publications
- Bingen, J. and Gibbon, D. 2012. Early Farming Systems Research and Extension Experience in Africa and Possible Relevance for FSR in Europe. In I. Darnhofer, D. Gibbon, B. Dedieu (eds),Farming Systems Research into the 21th Century: The New Dynamic. Springer: Dordrecht, p. 47-70.
- Freyer, B. and Bingen, J. 2011. The Transformation to Organic: Insights from Practice Theory, In Reed, M. (ed.), Organic Food and Agriculture. New Trends and Developments in the Social Sciences. InTech: Intechweb.org., p. 169-196.
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Progress 01/01/11 to 12/31/11
Outputs
OUTPUTS: During most of this reporting period the Principal Investigator was recovering from an extended period of hospitalization that occurred during the previous year. As a result it was impossible to produce any outputs or disseminate any findings related to the project goals and objectives. PARTICIPANTS: Not relevant to this project. TARGET AUDIENCES: Not relevant to this project. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Not relevant to this project.
Impacts
Since no research work could be undertaken during the reporting period, there are no outcomes or impacts to report.
Publications
- Dowd-Uriben, B., Bingen, J. (2011). Debating the Merits of Biotech Crop Adoption in sub-Saharan Africa: Distributional Impacts, Climatic Variability and Pest Dynamics, Progress in Development Studies 11: 63-68.
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Progress 01/01/10 to 12/31/10
Outputs
OUTPUTS: Activities. A Fulbright Visiting Professors position at the University of Natural Resources and Applied Life Scienes (BOKU)from September 2009 through January 2010 was completed in January 2010. A university-wide guest lecture was given on January 11, 2010 and guest presentations and discussions were held with students and colleagues at the Institute for Systems Science, Innovationa and Sustainability at the University of Graz, Austria. Parcipated in, and presented a paper (Theories and Methods in Transdisciplinary)at the 2011 Annual Meeting of the Network for Transdisciplinary Research in Berne, Switzerland. Course at BOKU on the politics of organic farming was completed. A paper, "Redefining Organic Agriculutre Through a Postmodern Lens" was presented with B. Freyer and L. KilmeK at the 17th ISA World Congress of Sociology. Data collected from Michigan farmers market managers was compiled and prelimanry anaysis was started. Graduate students organized a panel, "Listening to the Grassroots: Methodological Challenges in Agri-food Studies" for the Annual Meeting of the Agriculture, Food and Human Values Society in June. In addition, on graduate student presented a an invited paper at the Annual Meeting of the Southern Rural Sociology Association. One paper, co-authored with a graduate student at the Univeristy of California-Santa Cruz, "Debating the Merits of Biotech Crop Adoption in sub-Saharan Africa" was accepted for publication in the journal, Progress in Development Studies. PARTICIPANTS: The principal partner organization during the first part of this year was the University of Natural Resources and Applied Life Sciences (BOKU) in Vienna, Austria. One graduate student, Stakica Falat, in the Department of Community, Agriculture, Recreation and Resource Studies (CARRS) participated as a research assistant to compile and report on the framers market data. TARGET AUDIENCES: The principal audiences for the farmers market portion of this work included the managers and vendors in Michigan farmers markets. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Not relevant to this project.
Impacts
I had to take medical leave from the university starting in March and my professonal work had to be dramatically reduced through the end of the calendar year. Thus, there are no outcomes or impacts to report.
Publications
- Bingen, J., Sage, Julie and Sirieix, L. (2010). Consumer Coping Strategies of Eating Local, Innovation & Sustainable Developmenn in Agriculture and Food, June 28-July 2010: 26-40.
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Progress 01/01/09 to 12/31/09
Outputs
OUTPUTS: Several presentations included: "Toward More Localized Food and Farming in Michigan: Home Rule Confronts Place-based Values" at the 2009 Annual Land & Prosperity Summit; and two papers at the 2009 meetings of Agriculture, Food and Human Values Society: "The Road to Terroir in Northern Michigan: Are Local Zoning and Tax Regulations Ready" and "Terroir in the US: What does the Future Hold" In addition to serving as a member of the Scientific Committee for the IVth International Congress of the Localized Agriculture Systems Network (SIAL in Mar del Plata, Argentina a presentation was given on "Place-based Values and Rural Development." Supervised PhD dissertation and Master thesis research projects include: PhD research on Hispanic produce farmers and marketing in Michigan, first generation farmers, and value-based value chains, based on a case study of incubator kitchens in Michigan. Two supervised Masters theses include a study of farmer perceptions of the long-term effects of glyphosate on soil quality and a study of the Sysco-Grand Rapids program "Buy Fresh, Buy Local." A North Central Region SARE grant was extended for one year in order to update responses from participating farmer vendors and to interview farmer market managers. A Collaborative Agreement between MSU-SupAgro-M (the Agronomic School in Montpellier France) was signed. This agreement facilitates the exchange of faculty and students between the two institutions. A USDA International Science and Education project, "A Michigan-French Partnership to Strengthen the Global Competence of Students, Researchers and Extension Educators in Agriculture and Tourism" was awarded. This will help create a Food and Agriculture Innovation Curriculum, and collaborative, applied research programs in value-added food, agriculture, and agri-tourism. A position as a Fulbright Distinguished Chair with the Organic Institute at the University of Natural Resources and Applied Life Sciences (BOKU) in Vienna, Austria from October 1, 2009 through January 30, 2010 was accepted. This position involves developing a book on organic farming and modernity, advising and consulting on several PhD dissertations, and work to explore several issues in trans-disciplinary research. This included a presentation, "The Role of Theories and Methods for Transdisciplinary Integration Processes" presented with a BOKU colleague at The Second Annual Conference of the Td-net Network for Trans-disciplinary Research in Berne, Switzerland. Two internationally-focused supervised dissertations include one at MSU on urban farming in Senegal, and a second at the University of California-Santa Cruz on the introduction of Bt cotton in Burkina Faso. The latter research has led to an article, "Debating the Merits of Biotech Crop Adoption in sub-Saharan Africa: Distributional Impacts, Climatic Variability and Pest Dynamics," to be published in 2010 in Progress in Development Studies. PARTICIPANTS: Not relevant to this project. TARGET AUDIENCES: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
Objective 1. As part of the research on first generation farmers, a website, Beginning Farmers, has been created and it has generated a steady flow of discussion on numerous issues related to this growing group of small farmers in the US. Preliminary findings from the interviews with farmer market managers were shared and discussed during a special farmer market manager training session sponsored by the Michigan Farmers Market Association. Objective 4. The USDA-funded Michigan-French Partnership project has generated considerable enthusiasm among the Michigan agri-tourism community and with several groups of farmers engaged in valued-added agriculture. The Fulbright Chair position at BOKU has identified numerous opportunities for expanded trans-Atlantic research relationships and exchanges in the area of organic farming policy, place-based products and regional development, and in the area of trans-disciplinary studies.
Publications
- Bingen, J., Sage, J., and Sirieix, L. (2009). Consumer Perceptions and Coping Strategies of Consumers Committed to Eating Local in Michigan (USA), Working Paper MOISA, 3-2009, Montpellier, France. Available at: http://www1.montpellier.inra.fr/bartoli/moisa/bartoli/download/moisa2 009_pdf/WP_3_2009.pdf
- Martinez, L., Bingen, J., and Conner, D. (2009). Handlers Perspectives on Sourcing Organic Produce from Michigan and the Great Lakes Region, Choices, 24(3): Available at http://www.choicesmagazine.org/magazine/article.phparticle=88.
- Martinez, L., Conner, D., and Bingen, J. (2009). Great Lakes Organic Produce in Wholesale and Retail Grocery Markets: Opportunities and Challenges from Michigan, Journal of Food Distribution Research, 15(1): 118-122.
- Bingen, J., Colasanti, K., Fitzpatrick, M., and Nault, K. 2009. Urban Agriculture, Chapter 8 In Laurel Phoenix, (ed.), Critical Food Issues: Problems and State-of-the-Art Solutions Worldwide. New York, Praeger, p. 109-122.
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Progress 01/01/08 to 12/31/08
Outputs
OUTPUTS: Objective 1. Identify and assess the opportunities for Michigan farmers to pursue organic and place-based production and marketing strategies. Two sets of interviews were undertaken: 1) non-organic mixed fruit and vegetable growers from the western tier of counties in Michigan (including Oceana, Newago, Mason, Lake, and Manistee.) Twelve interviews were conducted with farmers ranked in four categories: large scale; large scale producer/aggregators; medium scale and small scale producers; 2) produce buyers or equivalent from eight food cooperatives in Michigan and from twelve independent grocers in Michigan. Data from these interviews are being analyzed. Data on the costs and sales associated with participating in farmers markets for thirteen Michigan farmers were compiled and a preliminary assessment of each farmer's costs and returns for their 2007 markets were shared with each farmer. This work is supported by a Research & Education grant from the North Central SARE. Results were shared during a "Farmers' Market Boot Camp" organized by the MI Farmers' Market Association (MIFMA) in March. The analysis of telephone interviews with 115 fresh produce handlers located in Michigan was completed. These interviews identified the interest of these handlers in buying organic produce, and their views regarding the production and marketing opportunities for, and constraints on sourcing organic fruits and vegetables in Michigan. The preliminary results of these interviews were presented at the 2008 meetings of the Society for Food Distribution. Objective 2. Continue and expand a regular survey and census of Michigan organic agriculture. Collaboration with the Michigan Field Office of the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) helped in: diffusing the results of the "organic section" of the Census of Agriculture, and developing an expanded list of questions related to organic agriculture for an upcoming survey. The list of certified organic farming and processing operations in Michigan for 2007 and for 2008 was updated based on responses from the certifying agencies registered with the MI Department of Agriculture. Objective 3. Identify and assess the public policy and program opportunities for promoting Michigan organic and place-based agriculture. Participation in the 2008 Michigan Organic Conference with the MI Department of Agriculture, a presentation at the first Michigan Organic Reporting Conference and discussions with food distribution industry representatives at the 2008 meeting of the Sustainable Food Lab in Santa Cruz, CA helped to identify several of the constraints on, and opportunities for promoting Michigan organic and place-based farming. Objective 4. Develop a transatlantic collaborative research program on organic and place-based agricultural and rural development strategies. A faculty-student exchange agreement between MSU and the Montpellier School for Advanced Studies in Agriculture (SupAgro-Montpellier) was prepared. A presentation on regionalized models of organic food production and marketing in the US was given at the Second Scientific Conference of ISOFAR in Modena. PARTICIPANTS: Not relevant to this project. TARGET AUDIENCES: Farmer-vendors in Michigan farmers' markets; small family farm organic fruit and vegetable growers. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
Objective 1. The results of discussions with fresh produce wholesalers and brokers has led to a series of discussions with growers and buyers about the feasibility of establishing farmer-aggregators who can help to facilitate sales into retail markets. The farmers' market research results encouraged several farmer-vendors to re-consider their marketing strategy and choice of markets for the 2008 season. Objective 2. Continued attention to obtaining baseline data on organic agriculture in Michigan has contributed to suggestions for improving the next NASS Organic Production Survey. Objective 3. Continuing state budget constraints create challenges in moving an organic agriculture production and marketing agenda forward with the Michigan Department of Agriculture. Objective 4. An exchange agreement between MSU and SupAgro-M will be signed in early 2009, and faculty and students from both institutions will begin a series of exchange visits that involved participating in and helping to design courses.
Publications
- Bingen, J. 2008. Genetically Engineered Cotton. Politics, Science and Power in West Africa. Chapter 9 in B. Mosely and L. Gray (eds.), Hanging by a Thread. Athens, Ohio. Ohio University Press. p. 227-250.
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Progress 01/01/07 to 12/31/07
Outputs
OUTPUTS: During 2007, the results of the 2006 Survey of Organic Agriculture in Michigan were disseminated and shared in several ways. The survey report was distributed to all MSU Extension offices in the state, all commodity and agriculture groups in the state and several government agencies, government-supported boards, and citizens who requested copies. The results were used in presentations for training Michigan NASS field enumerators and in a presentation during the 2007 Great Lakes Fruit & Vegetable Expo. Finally, the results were shared with wider audiences via radio interviews (Michigan Farm Network), and numerous articles in trade publications and local newspapers.
PARTICIPANTS: Individuals Carol Osborne, Michigan Organic Food & Farm Alliane (MOFFA); co-researcher on the survey of Michigan organic agriculture sub-contract with MOFFA. Emily Reardon, Research Assistant, Michigan State University; research assistant on the survey. Collaborator Laura B. DeLind, Department of Anthropology, Michigan State University Partner Organizations Michigan Organic Food & Farm Alliance (MOFFA); sub-contract with MSU to assist in carrying out the survey and in disseminating research results.
TARGET AUDIENCES: Target Audiences Organic farmers, those in transition and conventional farmers considering organic agriculture as a diversification strategy; extension educators; state government officials; special commodity and farm groups in Michigan; and, Michigan citizens interested in organic agriculture. Efforts Public presentations at meetings and conferences; radio shows and short articles in newspapers and trade journals.
PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: None to report.
Impacts
The results of the 2006 survey of organic agriculture in Michigan have been used by several researchers in developing the rationale for, and providing background for various types of social science and production agriculture research and studies. These results have also been used to stimulate an on-going conversation with state officials in the Department of Agriculture related to state support for organic farming in Michigan.
Publications
- Bingen, J., Osborne, C., and Reardon, E. (2007). Organic Agriculture in Michigan. 2006 Survey Report. MSU/MOFFA, East Lansing, MI.
- DeLind, L.B., Bingen, J. (2007). Be careful what you wish for: Democratic challenges and political opportunities for the Michigan Organic Community, Chapter 15 in C. C. Hinrichs and T.A. Lyson (eds.), Remaking the North American Food System: Strategies for Sustainability, University of Nebraska Press Lincoln, Nebraska, p. 298-314.
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Progress 01/01/06 to 12/31/06
Outputs
Two on-going research activities directly contribute to the achievement of the first two objectives. The first statewide survey of organic agriculture was completed with funding from a special USDA Sustainable Agriculture grant to MSU. Under the same grant, roundtable discussions with non-organic fruit & vegetable growers were held to identify their perceptions about incorporating organic practices into their production and marketing strategies. With funding from a USDA Organic Transitions grant, a first round of interviews with organic vegetable and bean/grain farmers identified their marketing strategies and issues. Based in part on these interviews, a research protocol to study market intermediaries was designed for implementation during 2007. Consistent with the objective of improving our understanding of organic marketing, funding was received from USDA/NCR-SARE to study the costs and returns of selling in farmers' markets in Michigan. The objective of developing
a transatlantic collaborative research program is being met in two ways. A study abroad program, Ecology, Culture and Politics of Food in France, is being used to establish a collaborative research relationship with researchers at the French Center for International Agricultural Research and Development (CIRAD). Funding has been received for an exploratory visit with organic agricultural researchers affiliated with the Euroleague for Life Sciences and North America (ELLSNA).
Impacts
The preliminary results of the statewide survey of organic agriculture have been shared with various audiences and used to generate discussions about the future of organic agriculture in Michigan. The experience in developing and administering this survey and insights gained from roundtable discussions were used to contribute to a training program for USDA/NASS/Michigan Field Office enumerators and to the design of organic questions to be included in several of this office's surveys in Michigan.
Publications
- Bingen, J., Busch, L. Eds., 2006. Agricultural Standards: The Shape of The Global Food and Fiber System. Dordrecht: Springer.
- Bingen, J. 2006. Cotton in West Africa: A Question of Quality. In Bingen, J., Busch, L. eds., Agricultural Standards: The Shape of The Global Food and Fiber System. Dordrecht: Springer: 219-242.
- Bingen, J., Busch, L. 2006. Shaping a Policy and Research Agenda. In Bingen, J., Busch, L. eds., Agricultural Standards: The Shape of The Global Food and Fiber System. Dordrecht: Springer: 245-251.
- Busch, L., Bingen, J. 2006. Introduction: A New World of Standards. In Bingen, J.. Busch, L. eds., Agricultural Standards: The Shape of The Global Food and Fiber System. Dordrecht: Springer: 3-28.
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Progress 01/01/05 to 12/31/05
Outputs
During 2005, two research grants were received that will help address many of the constraints facing organic growers and those seeking to transition from conventional to organic production. As part of a special USDA Sustainable Agriculture grant to MSU, a project between MSU and the MI Organic Food & Farm Alliance (MOFFA) is studying the perceptions of conventional fruit & vegetable growers about transtioning to organic production. A second multidisciplinary project funded by the USDA Organic Transitions program focuses on understanding the marketing channels available for organic vegetables and grains.
Impacts
The results of the on-going research will help in designing research and extension resources to help farmers transition to organic, and in identifying the support required to improve organic marketing opportunites.
Publications
- Bingen, J. 2005. The organic choice. More than a label. PediatricBasics. 110 (Spring): 16-24.
- Delind, L.B., Bingen, J. 2005.Be careful what you wish for: Democratic challenges and political opportunities for the Michigan organic community. Culture & Agriculture. 27, 2: 131-143.
- Delind, L.B., Bingen, J. 2005. Guest editors' introduction. Culture & Agriculture. 27, 2: 88-91.
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Progress 01/01/04 to 12/31/04
Outputs
During 2004 several activities have contributed to the achievement of the project objectives. Objective One is to identify and clarify policy and technology issues of Michigan organic growers: helped to organize and host the First World Congress on Organic Food: Meeting the Challenges of Safety and Quality for Fruits, Vegetables, and Grains (March 29-31, 2004). This included facilitating a breakout session on policy issues; continued participation on the Board of the Michigan Organic Food and Farm Alliance (MOFFA); and, analysis of data sets related to organic farming in Michigan. Objective Two is to complete a Michigan organic marketing map: five roundtable discussions were held with the managers of farmers markets and a survey was administered to farmers market vendors. Based in part on these discussions the first one day session on farmers markets was held at the 2004 Great Lakes Fruit and Vegetable Expo. Research on organic certification in the US and in Michigan
was started with funding from a NSF grant, Third Party Certification in Food and Agriculture: A Study in Values and Science. In collaboration with several colleagues, two proposals specifically linked to organic farming were submitted: the CSREES Organic Transitions Program and the CSREES Enhancing Rural Prosperity Program.
Impacts
Marketing continues to be one of the biggest constraints faced by many of small-scale and organic growers across the state. Clarifying issues related to the safety and quality of organic produce, and identifying market opportunities and constraints through farmers markets, can help to improve the market revenues of organic growers. Clarifying issues surrounding organic certification is also important for conventional growers who are considering a transition to organic as part of an overall crop production and marketing diversification strategy.
Publications
- Bingen, J. 2004. A Comparative Review of Multi-Stakeholder Arrangements for Representing Farmers in Agricultural Development Programmes and Policy-Making in Sub-Saharan Africa. Rome. FAO, Social Development Department. http://www.fao.org/sd/dim_in3/in3_040501_en.htm.
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Progress 01/01/03 to 12/31/03
Outputs
Michigan Farmers' Markets. Surveyed market managers/masters with plans during the first part of 2004 to convene focus groups of market managers/masters to discuss the results and define next steps, including surveys of farmer-vendors and customers in preparation for the 2004 season, and follow-up survey of market managers/masters. New project, in collaboration with the Family Nutrition project, approved: `Using EBT in Farmers' Markets to Increase Fruit and Vegetable Intake.' Initial Impacts: Summary of findings from farmers' market managers survey presented to: Michigan State Sustainable Agriculture Network; the Michigan Land Use Institute `Seeds of Prosperity' Conference; the Mount Clemens Farmers Market Annual Meeting; and, the2003 Great Lakes Fruit, Vegetable and Farm Market Expo (Farm Marketing Session). Michigan Organic and Community Farmers. Roundtable discussions held with farmers in five locations; analysis of Organic Farming Research Foundation (OFRF) data
(purchased data set) from Michigan organic farmers; analysis of Michigan data from OFRF 4th Annual Survey. The results of the roundtables and data analysis will be reviewed with Michigan organic growers (Organic Growers of Michigan; OCIA), and with the Michigan Organic Advisory Committee with a view to designing an annual Michigan organic survey. Initial Impacts: Results of roundtable discussions, `Michigan Organic and Community Farmer Roundtables, 2003. Summary Report & Recommendations' distributed at the MLUI `Seeds of Prosperity' Conference, and mailed to over 100 individuals in state government and MSU Extension; results of this survey, and complementary research, discussed with Keith Creagh, Deputy Director, MDA. USDA-CSREES Sustainable Agriculture Special Grant. `Socio-Ecological and Geographical Analysis of Michigan's Agriculture: Toward a Policy and Planning Tool for Sustainable Agriculture in Michigan.' Received this two year grant and preliminary data compilation and
analysis started. International: Continuing work with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations to compare the role of farmer associations in agricultural development policy in sub-Saharan Africa. Collaboration with the World Bank and FAO in preparing a WB-sponsored Local Development Conference (2004) on local institution capacity-building in rural areas.
Impacts
Small-scale (community) and family farms contribute significantly the vitality of Michigan's diverse agricultural sector. But much more is required to assure and strengthen this contribution. Most important, these farm families do not have a high profile among policy makers and they have a muted policy voice. In response, it is important to acquire and disseminate data about these farmers. In turn, this information needs to be shared among these farmers, and others who work with them (such as farmers' markets) and with policy makers, such as the Michigan Organic Advisory Board. This information sharing is taking place and groups like Michigan Integrated Food and Farming, and Michigan Organic Food and Farm Alliance are beginning to review appropriate policy steps.
Publications
- Osborne, C. and Bingen, J. 2003. Michigan Organic and Community Farmer Roundtables 2003. Summary Report & Recommendations. Gaylord, MI: MOFFA.
- Bingen, J., Serrano, A. and Howard, J. 2003. Linking Farmers to Markets: Different Approaches to Human Capital Development. Food Policy. 28: 405-419.
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Progress 01/01/02 to 12/31/02
Outputs
Since this project started in July 2002, the following activities have been undertaken consistent with the objectives of the project. Objective 1 - to identify and clarify the policy and technology issues of Michigan organic growers: participation in, and presentations to state chapter meetings of the Organic Growers of Michigan in order to identify their policy concerns; participation on the Board of the Michigan Organic Food and Farm Alliance; acquisition and analysis of the Michigan data set from the 3rd Biennial Organic Farmers Survey administered by the Organic Farming Research Foundation (OFRF). Objective 2 - to complete a Michigan organic marketing map: completion of a complete listing of farmers' markets in Michigan based on USDA and MDA data as well as information supplied by MSUE and local governments; successful preparation of a grant, Socio-ecological and Geographic Analysis of Michigan's Agriculture: Toward a Policy and Planning Tool for Sustainable
Agriculture in Michigan. Objective 3: develop a transatlantic collaborative research program: participation in the development of a research proposal in collaboration with members of the NE-1012 project, Sustaining Local Food Systems in a Globalizing Environment: Forces, Responses, Impacts.
Impacts
The Socio-ecological and Geographic Analysis, project will offer new and productive ways to think about the key inter-relationships among otherwise individual policy measures and develop new insights for constructive steps toward more sustainable food and agriculture systems in Michigan. This project will also provide a tool for thinking more holistically about issues of farmland preservation and land use, as well as alternative (and organic) farming
Publications
- Bingen, J. 2002. Guest Editor. Shaping our Agro-Food System: Whose Standards Count? Guest Editor Observations. Special Issue. Agriculture and Human Values, 4, Winter: pp. 279-281.
- Bingen, J. and. Siyengo, A. 2002. Standards and Corporate Reconstruction in the Michigan Dry Bean Industry. Agriculture and Human Values. 19, 4, Winter: pp. 311-323.
- Bingen, J. and Rouse, J. 2002. Agricultural Development and the Empowerment of African Farmers: Perspectives and Policy Recommendations, A Position Paper. The Nairobi Workshop on Getting Agriculture Moving in the New Millennium: The Empowerment of African Farmers Nairobi, Kenya, March 13-15, 2002.
- Bingen, J. and Munyankusi, L. 2002. Farmer Associations, Decentralization and Development in Rwanda: Challenges Ahead. Agricultural Policy Synthesis. No. 3E. (April) Kigali: Rwanda Food Security Research Project/MINAGRI. http://www.aec.msu.edu/agecon/fs2/rwanda/PS_3E.PDF
- Bingen, J. 2002. Strength in Making our Numbers Known-Michigan Organic Connections, Vol IX, No. 3 September/October 2002: 1-2.
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Progress 01/01/01 to 12/31/01
Outputs
Work on this project continued in two areas. First, as part of my affiliation with the Institute for Food and Agricultural Standards (IFAS) at MSU, papers were solicited for a special issue of Agriculture and Human Values on 'Whose Standards Count' to be published in 2002. In addition to papers on labeling and the WTO, these papers will deal with the political and policy dimensions of standards for organic cotton, medicinal herbs, avocados, dry beans. Second, in collaboration with the Food & Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, FAO, I coordinated studies on farmers' access to agricultural services through farmer associations in Cameroon, Ethiopia, Kenya, Mali, Rwanda, Senegal and Zambia.
Impacts
: The findings of the comparative study with FAO contributes to the design and implementation of international development programs focused on strengthening the role, and contribution of farmer associations to agricultural and rural development
Publications
- Bingen, J. 2001. Institutions and Sustainable Livelihoods. Forum on Operationalizing Participatory Ways of Applying Sustainable Livelihoods Approaches. Proceedings. Rome: FAO.
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Progress 01/01/00 to 12/31/00
Outputs
Work on this project continued in three areas. First, in collaboration with the Institute for Food and Agricultural Standards (IFAS), studies on the role of commodity standards were undertaken with the Michigan Bean Commission and the Michigan Potato Commission. Second, the results of work previously completed on Michigan PA 232 groups was shared with the Michigan Organic Advisory Committee. Third, a study of farmer associations and food security in Rwanda was continued and an exploratory visit was made to launch a similar study in Mozambique. In addition, a major, seven-country comparative study of the topic was designed and is being implemented as part of a sabbatical year appointment with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. Studies are being undertaken in Cameroon, Ethiopia, Mali, Mozambique, Rwanda, Senegal and Zambia
Impacts
Our work contributed to writing Michigan's new public act on organic agriculture and it has stimulated key Michigan commodity groups to think more critically about the importance of agri-food standards to their programs. The work started during the sabbatical has helped launch a major new, 3-year research initiative by the FAO.
Publications
- Institute for Food and Agricultural Standards. 2000. Markets, Rights and Equity: Food and Agricultural Standards in a Shrinking World. Recommendations from an International Workshop. East Lansing, Michigan: Michigan State University Extension.
- Bingen, J., Brinkerhof, D. 2000. Agricultural Research in Africa and the Sustainable Financing Initiative: Revew, Lessons, and Proposed Next Steps. Technical Paper # 112. SD Publication Series. Washington, DC: US Agency for International Development.
- Bingen, R.J., Robinson, D., Staatz, J.M. 2000. Democracy and Development in Mali. East Lansing, Michigan: MSU Press.
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Progress 01/01/99 to 12/31/99
Outputs
1. Developed a web-based inventory and information page of Michigan commodity groups including legislatively-established commissions, general membership organizations and organic and sustainable agriculture groups. 2. In collaboration with the Michigan Bean Commission and the Michigan Bean Shippers Associations, undertook a study of grades & standards of Michigan dry beans. 3. Developed a proposal for a comparative study of farmer groups and policy-making in sub-Saharan Africa.
Impacts
1. Based on this inventory, prepared a summary of organizational and policy lessons for consideration in legislation on organic products and agriculture in Michigan. 2. Established a base for communication and information sharing among the Michigan commodity groups.
Publications
- Johnson, Thomas R., Bingen R. James. 1999. Michigan Agricultural Groups Information Program. http://rdwins.rd.msu.edu/miaggroups/. East Lansing, MI: Department of Resource Development
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Progress 01/01/98 to 12/31/98
Outputs
Coordinator, Policy Working Group, Michigan Integrated Food and Farming Systems program. Designed and completed an assessment survey of all MIFFS Innovation Projects. Presented a poster at the 1st Annual SARE Conference, "It Takes a Network: Building Integrated Food and Farming Systems in Michigan." Received a grant of $5,000 from the MAES to design and prepare an organizational resources and issues inventory of selected MI commodity (PA 232) groups. Help to organize and presented an overview paper, "Sustainable Financing and Agricultural Research in sub-Saharan Africa," at an international roundtable hosted by the U.S. Agency for International Development and the World Bank Special Programme for African Agricultural Research (SPAAR). Received a grant ($400,000) from the National Science Foundation for the project, "Making the Grade: Science and Values in Agricultural Grades and Standards." In addition to working with several Michigan commodity groups, this project
involves a study of cotton in Mali. Received a 3-year MAES Disciplinary Grant ($75,000) to study grades and standards for selected Michigan Agricultural Commodities. Received and MAES International Travel Grant in support of the MAES Disciplinary Grant to learn how the policies and activities of several, European-based international organizations affect the grades and standards for agricultural commodities. Received a Global Area and Thematic Initiative Grant to design a seminar on "Grades & Standards in Everyday Life." Received funding from several units at MSU and the Farm Foundation to host an international workshop on food and agricultural grades and standards in the Fall, 1999. Member of the MSU Institute for Food and Agricultural Standards (IFAS).
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- Bingen, R.J. 1998. Cotton, Democracy and Development in Mali. The Journal of Modern African Studies. 36:265-285pp.
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