Progress 04/15/16 to 04/14/20
Outputs
Target Audience:The Farm Fresh Food Box (F3B)grant efforts have served farmers, retailers, Extension agents, non-profits, government entities, academics and the general public, through research and extension components of the project. The first year of the Farm Fresh Food Box project focused on implementing a pilot in three Vermont communities: Jericho, Fairlee, and Waterville. The pilot was conducted during the Fall of 2016. Due to USDA administrative delays in the start date, the pilot lasted only three months; therefore, data were not collected over a full agricultural season. Vermont Extension relied on existing networks to initiate and test the pilot, providing training and marketing support as they helped to establish farmer-retailer partnerships. In year one, only Vermont farmers and retailers were engaged in the implementation of the Farm Fresh Food Box strategy. In the second year of the project (April 2017-April 2018), the Washington State and Vermont Extension teams implemented the project through the full season, reaching farmers, retailers and consumers in seven communities across both states. Outreach to consumers was accomplished through posts on social media platforms in addition to flyers/handbills, and signage. The California extension team was unable to implement the project during the second year of the project due to persistent wildfires across that state. The second-year audience also included academic, extension and other professionals through conference presentations, posters, and publications. In total, the team presented information at six conferences and through one published article (see products for 2017-2018). In the third year of the project (April 2018-April 2019), the team provided ongoing technical assistance to rural communities implementing Farm Fresh Food Box in Vermont, Washington, and California, reaching 6 farmers, 8 retailers, and a wider consumer base. Greater audience reach was facilitated by the use of Everydoor Direct, a marketing method in which flyers/post cards are sent to every resident within a particular community. Each community used this method, bringing awareness of the Farm Fresh Food Box a wider audience of consumers. Furthermore, this method drew the attention of newspapers, local radio shows, as well as other farmers, who contacted Extension team members for additional details. Additionally, the team presented project data to national and international conferences, which included Extension and academic audiences. This included four conference presentations and a lay article about the F3B strategy (see products for 2018-2019). In the No Cost Extension (NCE) year(April 2019-April 2020), our focus was on producing and implementing dissemination materials. As a result, our materials have been disseminated to academics, extension, farmers, retailers, students, non-profit organizations, and government personnel. Outreach to academic and extension audiences during the NCE year was accomplished through the publication of 2 peer-reviewed journal articles (see products). As of this report, two additional articles, submitted respectively to Journal of Extension and Agriculture, Food and Human Values, are under review; they will further academic and Extension knowledge of the Farm Fresh Food Box Strategy.Additionally, the team is currently working to finalize two articles for publication: onereports findings from the purchaser survey,and another reviews and synthesizes findings based on analysis of all data collected over the life of the project. In December 2019, we hosted a national webinar to introduce the Farm Fresh Food Box strategy, which attracted more than 60 individuals ranging from academia, Extension, students, government personnel, non-profit organizations, farmers, retailers and other individuals. We followed up on this success with three short-course sessions in early 2020, which attracted farmers and farming organizations, extension agents, and retailers. Additionally, the team had planned to reach academics and Extension agents at a national and international level through 4 scheduled conference presentations at the Agriculture, Food and Human Values Society annual conference, National Good Food Network, and the Urban Food Systems Symposium (see products for 2019-2020). While a presentation was made at the National Good Food Network, as of this report, the three additional conferences had been cancelled or postponed due to COVID-19. Changes/Problems:Over the course of the project, the only major problem was the norther California wildfires (2017), which caused our California Extension team to halt recruitment and implementation of the project during the 2017 agricultural season. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Over the course of the project, training has been geared towards farmers and retailers in learning about how to implement the Farm Fresh Food Box strategy. Starting in the pilot year (2016), the project team worked with participating farms and retail stores to provide training in marketing; tracking orders, sales and pickups; and working with a partner. Professional development delivery by Extension has taken the form of experiential learning during provision of training, relationship building and technical assistance for farmers and retailers both in- and out of-season. Both Extension and research teams deepened their skills and knowledge during cross disciplinary review and discussion of the post-season farmer-retailer interviews. In the spring of 2018, the team received a Northeast Regional Center for Rural Development travel grant to gather in Vermont as a team to: 1.) Discuss findings to date; 2.) Develop new strategies for the 2018 season; 3.) Meet with a farmer and retailer participating in the project to better understand their individual needs; and 4.) Discuss dissemination materials. This meeting provided an opportunity to learn from the innovative solutions emerging in each state, resulting in professional development for the team. The team also received training in new marketing strategies during the 2018 Farm Fresh Food Box season, when they trained on how to use EveryDoor Direct, a marketing method in which postcards are sent to pre-selected zip-codes. This was then used to promote awareness of the Farm Fresh Food Box in the communities where farmers/retailers were located. Extension team members plan to use this marketing method in future work with farmers and communities. In addition to sales marketing, the team was trained on the best methods to develop a useful infographic to deliver research findings to lay audiences. The team eventually developed an infographic using the national market survey as well as producer and retailer interview data, which was disseminated at conferences and used as a marketing tool for the webinar and short course series discussed below. The Farm Fresh Food Box team of Extension and academic members were trained by Mary Peabody (UVM Extension) on how to develop, market, and run online webinars and short courses. This included building an outline of agenda; how, where and when to market the webinar and short course; Zoom webinar platform use; use of polls and other ways to assess participant progress; as well as other methods of preparation, such as use of headsets, sharing screens, etc. Extension and research team also developed and presented a Farm Fresh Food Box short course curriculum, which included three courses that covered the logistics, marketing and financial aspects of the strategy. This was advertised through Extension listservs, and attracted a range of individuals, including farmers, retailers, food cooperatives, Extension agents, government personnel and academics. This curriculum was presented between February and early March 2020. Additionally, a webinar was developed to help instruct academics, extension, farmers, and retailers and other groups about F3B methods. Presentations and poster sessions at conferences provided further opportunities for professional development for both research and Extension team members throughout the life of this project (see Products). The project has also provided training and professional development for graduate and undergraduate students over the life of the project. Two graduate and two undergraduate students have been trained in qualitative and quantitative survey design, data collection, data cleaning and management, and data analysis. Students also learned how to develop literature reviews, and the process of writing peer-reviewed articles. One graduate student produced two thesis articles from the F3B products, which are now being reviewed by journals (See Greco, L... products).Further, the graduate students learned from Extension partners on how to work with farmers and retailers on the ground to implement the Farm Fresh Food Box strategy. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Each year, project findings have been disseminated through conference presentations and poster sessions offered by both research and Extension team members. Team members have also developed a Farm Fresh Food Box website, housed at the University of Vermont Center for Rural Studies home page in perpetuity so that interested parties, including academic, Extension, farmers, retailers, and other audiences can access information about the project, including the toolkit, webinar and short course recordings, marketing tool templates, PowerPoints, articles and more. A YouTube page has been developed to provide easy accessibility of the webinar and short courses. The link to this page will be included in presentation materials, the website, toolkit, and other project materials. The Toolkit, including best practices, will be disseminated widely and has already been used during the webinar and short course presentations. Along with the short course curriculum outline, short course videos and PowerPoints, and webinar materials, the toolkit will be used by project team members in their local work, and will be available for download to any member of the public who wants to implement this strategy. Team members plan to market these tools throughout their networks beyond the life of this project. Results have been disseminated to communities of interest through a webinar and a short course series, which were widely marketed through Extension and academic networks. These products were heavily attended by farmers, retailers and extension agents, as well as non-profit organizations, government personnel, and other interested parties. Presentations at both academic and Extension national conferences also helped to disseminate F3B results to academics across fields of study, Extension agents, government personnel, students, farmers, retailers and other interested parties. Journal articles have also been a method of dissemination used. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?
Nothing Reported
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
EXTENSION OBJECTIVES Extension team members successfully completed the following objectives in three geographically diverse areas (VT, WA, and CA): 1) developing an innovative market channel for farmers; 2) creating opportunities for retail sites to provide local products; and 3) providing rural consumers with a new channel to access healthy foods. This was accomplished by implementing the Farm Fresh Food Box (F3B) strategy during the pilot and two full seasons. Implementation included identifying and matching farm and retail partners, training them to implement the strategy, providing ongoing technical assistance to both partners over the course of the season with regard to communications, marketing, other needs as they arose, and providing post-season feedback that was used to inform the subsequent implementation season. In the NCE year, the extension and research project team developed and delivered a webinar, a three-session short course, and a published Toolkit for organizations interested in learning more about and/or implementing a Farm Fresh Food Box strategy in their community. While ultimate sales of boxes were lower than expected, the project provided proof of concept for successful implementation of the Farm Fresh Food Box strategy: farms and retailers could successfully partner to sell a CSA-style product through non-traditional rural retail channels: convenience stores, gas stations, and general stores farmers and retailers alike reported experiencing the benefits we expected (expanded markets for farmers, retailer ability to provide fresh local produce with minimal risks); participating consumers were both accepting of purchasing fresh local produce in this new retail setting and satisfied with box contents. Through these findings, the Extension and research teams developed a best practices guide (see products: toolkit, short course outline, etc.) that were disseminated through conferences presentations, marketing materials, webinar presentation, three short course presentations, and additional presentations made by Extension team members within their own regional networks. These materials will be maintained by UVM via the Farm Fresh Food Box website (www.uvm.edu/crs/f3b) and via the Farm Fresh Food Box YouTube channel(https://tinyurl.com/F3Byoutube)for public consumption upon closing of the grant, and the Extension team members will continue to use these materials. It should be noted that, given the Covid-19 pandemic, the team has found growing interest in the strategy, which they hope to leverage to gain greater traction as small and medium farms might move to selling directly to individuals as state and federal regulations change. Further, Extension team members continue to work with farms who participated in the three seasons of the project are continuing to offer the strategy on their own. Assistance for these farms will be provided through monitoring and providing on-going technical assistance in order to maintain sustainability.As consumers become more accustomed to "curbside" delivery of groceries that are preordered, the hypothesized reason for low adoption by consumers can be overcome; lack of convenience due to the need to preorder a Farm Fresh Food Box. RESEARCH OBJECTIVES Using a series of research and data collection materials developed for this project, the research team completed the following objectives: assessing the market potential for the F3B strategy in rural communities in VT, WA and CA; measuring the economic impact of F3B returns to farmers and retailers, and the regional economy; measuring the acceptability and use of F3B among consumers; and comparing the benefits and barriers of the strategy to farmers, retailers and consumers, and compared this with other direct sales approaches.The first objective was met by developing a county/community profile for each of the locations where the strategy was implemented (2017-2018), and conducting a national market survey (2017-2018). The profiles provided a detailed contextual profile of the communities and counties used by the research team to assess how social, economic and political factors influenced strategy implementation in each location. The national market strategy found that: 1) the lifetime prevalence of shopping through direct to consumer venues like farmers' markets and CSA was generally high (79.1%); 2) untapped markets may exist in the Western region, particularly for farmers markets and farm stands; 3) freshness, taste and concern for farmers and local economies are top motivators for shopping through direct to consumer venues; and 4) inconvenience and seasonality are remaining barriers to purchase locally grown foods through direct markets. We also found that a majority of consumers liked the Farm Fresh Food Box model, and would be more likely to purchase one if they felt the quality of its contents justified a higher price premium. The second objective, measuring economic impact, was accomplished using post-season interview and the firmographic survey. For most farmers and retailers involved, this project generated a modest number of sales and revenue. During post season interviews, farmers said that while monetary profitability was low, the Farm Fresh Food Box strategy is a new innovation and will likely take time to catch on and generate sufficient revenue to make a financial impact on their business. Most farmers said that the value of the project was working with retailers to sell their product through a novel setting, raising awareness in a new market segment about the availability and quality of locally grown produce, and expanding their customer base. We tested the acceptability and use of F3B among consumers through a purchaser survey conducted during the 2017-18 and 2018-19 seasons in all F3B sites. Our findings show that a majority of survey respondents were satisfied with both product characteristics (quality and variety) as well as with ease of ordering, pick up convenience and interactions with the retailer. Less than half found F3B to be less expensive than other places they shopped, yet three-quarters felt it was still good value for the money. Considering diffusion of innovation qualities, F3B was perceived to have high relative advantage and trialability, and good compatibility. Our analysis identified a need to convey more information to purchasers about farm identity and benefits of supporting local agriculture, which echoes recommendations made during post season interviews with farmers. The research team found that rural communities in VT, WA and CA had great interest in, and market potential for, the F3B strategy. Post-season interviews indicated that the F3B strategy provided a new way for farmers to attract consumers who had never participated in CSA, recapture those who had left the CSA for financial or other reasons, and entice farmers market patrons who were looking for better prices, or more convenient shopping times and locations. However, farmers voiced concerns that the model inserted a barriers to direct interaction with customers. A key lesson learned was the importance of working to ensure that the distinct attributes of the farm's identity were conveyed by the retailer to the customer.
Publications
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Chase, L., Becot, F., Estrin, H., Greco, L., Kolodinsky, J., Roche, E., Sitaker, M., Smith, D. K., and Van Soelen, K. (2017). Farm fresh food boxes: Expanding rural economies through new markets for farmers and retailers. Presented at The Community Development Society and National Association of Community Development Extension Professionals Joint Conference, Big Sky, MT. June 11-14, 2017
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Sitaker, M., Becot, F., Chase, L., Estrin, H., Greco, L., Kolodinsky, J., Roche, E., Smith, D. K., and Van Soelen, K. (2017). Farm fresh food boxes open new markets for farmers and retailers, and benefit rural economies. Presented at the Agriculture, Food, & Human Values Society and Association for the Study of Food and Society Joint Conference, Los Angeles, CA. June 14-17, 2017.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Smith, D. K., Roche, E., Becot, F., Chase, L., Estrin, H. Greco, L., Sitaker, M. Van Soelen Kim, J., Wang, W., Kolodinsky, K. (2017). Farm Fresh Food Boxes: Increasing Food Access in Rural Communities through New Markets for Farmers and Retailers. Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior Annual Conference. Poster Session, Washington D.C.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Smith, D. K., Roche, E., Becot, F., Chase, L., Estrin, H. Greco, L., Sitaker, M. Van Soelen Kim, J., Wang, W.W., Kolodinsky, J. (2017, November). Farm Fresh Food Boxes: Direct to consumer strategy for increasing food access and economic vitality. Poster session at the annual conference of the Tilth Alliance, Vancouver, WA.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Wang, W., Sitaker, M., Chase, L., Estrin, H., Becot, F., Greco, L., Roche, E., Smith, D. Van Soelen Kim, J., & Kolodinsky, J. (2017, August). Innovations in rural development: Farm fresh food boxes. Panel presentation session at the annual meeting of the Agriculture and Applied Economic Association (AAEA), Chicago, IL.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Sitaker, M., Kolodinsky, J., Estrin, H., Greco, L., Chase, L., Wang, W., Smith, D., Van Soelen Kim, J. (2018, June). Consumer response to Farm Fresh Food Boxes, an entrepreneurial partnership between farmers and retailers. Presented at the Agriculture, Food and Human Values (AFHVS)/Association for the study of Food and Society (ASFS) Joint Conference, Madison, WI.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Smith, D., Greco, L., Van Soelen Kim, J.E., Sitaker, M., Kolodinsky, J. (2018) Farm Fresh Food Box: An innovative new business model in rural communities, Rural Connections, 12(1): pp 25-28. http://wrdc.usu.edu/files-ou/RC-SPR-SUM- 18w.pdf
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Smith, D. K., Chase, L., Estrin, H. Greco, L., Sitaker, M. Van Soelen Kim, J., Wang, W., Kolodinsky, J. (2018, March). Farm Fresh Food Boxes: An integrated research and extension project to address access to healthy, affordable food by connecting farmers, retailers, and consumers. Poster session at the annual WSU Academic Showcase, Pullman, WA.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Kolodinsky, J. (June 2018). Farm fresh food boxes. Presentation at the Agricultural & Applied Economics Association Post Conference NIFA Agricultural Economics and Rural Communities Project Directors Workshop. Washington, D.C.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Sitaker, M., Wang, W., Chase, L., Estrin, H., Smith, D., Van Soelen Kim, J., Kolodinsky, J. (expected June 2019). Who buys "local": Where and why. Presented at the Agriculture, Food and Human Values Society (AFHVS) and the Association for the Study of Food and Society (ASFS) Joint Conference. Juneau, AK. June 26-28, 2019.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Kolodinsky, J., Wang, W., Sitaker, M., Chase, L., Estrin, H., Smith, D., Van Soelen Kim, J. (expected June 2019). Developing entrepreneurial partnerships between farmers and retailers: The Farm Fresh Food Box model, presented at Agriculture, Food and Human Values Society (AFHVS) and the Association for the Study of Food and Society (ASFS) Joint Conference. Juneau, AK. June 26-29, 2019.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Van Soelen Kim, J., Chase, L., Estrin, H., Sitaker, M., Smith, D., Wang, W., Kolodinsky, J. (February 2019). Farm box pilot project, presented in the Non-traditional community supported agriculture models panel at the 2019 Farmers Guild CA Small Farmers Conference. Davis, CA. February 22-23, 2019.
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Progress 04/15/18 to 04/14/19
Outputs
Target Audience:In the 2018-19 reporting period, the Farm Fresh Food Box (F3B) project reached rural communities in Vermont, Washington and California where the project was implemented, along with the participating retailers and farmers in those communities. Extension and outreach were primary methods for reaching farmers and retailers. Additionally, the project reached Extension and academic groups through conferences and publications including Agriculture, Food and Human Values annual conference, Agricultural & Applied Economics post-conference NIFA Agricultural Economics and Rural Communities Project Director's workshop, California Small Farm Conference, Cultivating the Harvest conference, and Rural Connections. Please see the Products page for more details about these specific items. Changes/Problems:
Nothing Reported
What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Undergraduate training: two undergraduates joined the project in 2018-2019 project year to help with data analysis and reporting. Both students have learned how to analyze quantitative data in SPSS; one student has been working with researchers to collect and analyze qualitative data. Graduate training: one graduate student has been assisting with outreach materials, such as the website. A second graduate student worked during the 2018 season with Vermont Extension staff to facilitate partnerships and collect consumer data. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?During the 2018-2019 funded year, the F3B team has disseminated findings and results of analyzed data at Extension and academic society conferences, small-farmer networking conferences, as well as through handouts for farmers/retailers. These include presentations to the Agriculture, Food and Human Values Society; Association for the Study of Food and Society; Farmers Guild CA; and Inland Midwest Small Acreage farming conference. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Over the next reporting period (No Cost Extension Year), the F3B team will be determining the best practices of the F3B approach based on implementation and post-season surveys, as well as Extension reflections. The team plans to use the information to develop dissemination materials for academic, extension and public consumption. These materials include: journal publications, eXtension webinars and short courses, materials/tools for public use. Additionally, we will be continuing to disseminate results at national academic and Extension conferences, as well as regional/local network conferences targeted to Extension and small farm groups. This includes the National Association for Community Development Extension Professionals; Agriculture, Food and Human Values Society; and Association for the Study of Food and Society.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
In each state, Extension staff continued to implement F3B with established partnerships or recruited new partnerships. Overall, each state had at least one diversified produce grower (CA: 1; VT: 2; WA: 3) and at least 2 retail sites (CA: 3; VT: 2; WA: 3) partnering to implement F3B for the 2018 season. Using lessons learned from the 2017 season (e.g. that establishing relationships between the partners prior to the start of the season would help engagement and communication), Extension staff met with the farm/retailer partners together to ensure relationship building at the outset. Additionally, Extension staff worked with growers to table in the stores prior to the start of the season to increase outreach and to conduct a consumer intercept survey, which helped the team learn more about potential customer reaction to the product. Extension staff in all three states met with retailers and farmers together to discuss implementation strategy for the season. New retailers were found when previous retailers were unable to fulfill the obligations of the project; in such cases, Extension staff worked with farmers to find enthusiastic partners in their communities. Each partner was given process information and decided upon the best method to approach their partnership. As part of the consumer intervention surveys, Extension staff conducted outreach tabling at each retail site prior to the start of model implementation to ensure that pricing and product aligned with customer needs. This information was used by Extension staff with F3B partners. Extension staff provided marketing materials and helped to create marketing opportunities, such as direct mailers that were sent to the communities within an accessible range of the retailer and/or farm. Additional marketing materials were refined and customized to each retail site. Marketing materials included a F3B facebook page, logo, posters and handbills, and sandwich boards. Extension in all three states helped to provide marketing materials and logistical support for each partnership over the course of the season and beyond. Extension also ensured that each partnership met prior to the start of the season, to finalize logistical decisions and establish good communication channels. The research team conducted a national market survey to better understand national and regional consumer attitudes and behaviors regarding locally grown foods, and assessing consumer interest in F3B. This survey was conducted in Spring 2018 and the results have been used to inform farmers and retailers. Additionally, the team continues to analyze the data and will be publishing results during the NCE year. The purchaser survey was implemented again this past season with higher response rate (n=42) than the previous year (n=12). Similar to last year's results, the average age of purchasers was about 60 years of age, primarily female (83%), white (95.6%), with a higher income (43.7%). Results show that almost 50% of respondents heard about the direct mailing efforts. Purchasers also enjoyed the quality, freshness and variety of products in the boxes they received. Although the cost of the box was higher than consumers typically pay for fresh produce, purchasers enjoyed the quality, ease of ordering, convenience, as well as the variety of produce. Additional analysis of the purchaser survey will be conducted in the final project year. In the post-season survey, the research team included questions for farmers/retailers to compare F3B and other DTC markets in terms of benefits and barriers. These data are currently being analyzed.
Publications
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Under Review
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Greco, L., Kolodinsky, J., Sitaker, M., Chase, L.C., Wang, W., Van Soelen Kim, J., Smith, D., Estrin, H. (under review). Farm Fresh Food Boxes: Pilot study findings of farmer-rural retailer partners, Journal of Extension.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Kolodinsky, J., Wang, W., Sitaker, M., Chase, L., Estrin, H., Smith, D., Van Soelen Kim, J. (expected June 2019). Developing entreprenurial partnerships between farmers and retailers: The Farm Fresh Food Box model, presented at 2019 Joint Annual Meetings and Conference of the Agriculture, Food and Human Values Society (AFHVS) and the Association for the Study of Food and Society (ASFS). Juneau, AK. June 26-29, 2019.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Van Soelen Kim, J., Chase, L., Estrin, H., Sitaker, M., Smith, D., Wang, W., Kolodinsky, J. (February 2019). Farm box pilot project, presented in the Non-traditional community supported agriculture models panel at the 2019 Farmers Guild CA Small Farmers Conference. Davis, CA. February 22-23, 2019.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Smith, D., Chase, L., Estrin, H., Wang, W., Sitaker, M., Van Soelen Kim, J., Kolodinsky, J. (March 2019). Farm Fresh Food Boxes: Direct to consumer strategy for increasing food access and economic vitality. Poster at Cultivating the Harvest: 20th anniversary Inland Northwest small acreage farming conference. Moscow, ID. March 1-2, 2019.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Submitted
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Chase, L., Smith, D., Sitaker, M., Wang, W., Estrin, H., Van Soelen Kim, J., Kolodinsky, J. (Submitted). Growing the Local Food Pie: Increasing Access and Creating New Markets for Local Food, 2019 National Association of Community Development Extension Professionals Conference. June 9-13, 2019.
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Smith, D., Greco, L., Van Soelen Kim, J.E., Sitaker, M., Kolodinsky, J. (2018) Farm Fresh Food Box: An innovative new business model in rural communities, Rural Connections, 12(1): pp 25-28. http://wrdc.usu.edu/files-ou/RC-SPR-SUM-18w.pdf
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Sitaker, M., Wang, W., Chase, L., Estrin, H., Smith, D., Van Soelen Kim, J., Kolodinsky, J. (expected June 2019). Who buys "local": Where and why, presented at 2019 Joint Annual Meetings and Conference of the Agriculture, Food and Human Values Society (AFHVS) and the Association for the Study of Food and Society (ASFS). Juneau, AK. June 26-29, 2019.
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Sitaker, M., McGuirt, J., Wang, W., Kolodinsky, J., Seguin, R. (2019). Spatial considerations for implementing two direct-to-consumer food models in two states, Sustainabilty, 11(7):2081. https://doi.org/10.3390/su11072081
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Sitaker, M., Kolodinsky, J., Estrin, H., Greco, L., Chase, L., Wang, W., Smith, D., Van Soelen Kim, J. (2018, June). Consumer response to Farm Fresh Food Boxes, an entrepreneurial partnership betwen farmers and retailers. Presentation session at the 2018 Joint Annual Meetings and Conference of the Agriculture, Food and Human Values Society (AFHVS) and the Association for the Study of Food and Society (ASFS). Madison, WI.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Kolodinsky, J. (June 2018). Farm fresh food boxes. Presentation at the Agricultural & Applied Economics Association Post Conference NIFA Agricultural Economics and Rural Communities Project Directors Workshop. Washington, D.C.
|
Progress 04/15/17 to 04/14/18
Outputs
Target Audience:In the three study states (Vermont, Washington State, and California), the project team is striving to support local economies by opening new markets for farmers, increasing foot traffic in small rural stores, and increase access to fresh produce for rural residents. In the first full year of implementation, the team's efforts included outreach and extension to three retailer-farmer pairs in Vermont, three retailer-farmer pairs in Washington, and one farmer in California. Additionally, sales of the FFFB reached consumers in seven communities. Additionally, the project reached academic, extension and other professionals through conference presentations, posters, and publication. In total, the team were able to present the information at six (6) conferences and published one (1) article (see products page). Changes/Problems:In this reporting period, we experienced the following unexpected outcomes: Fewer sales than anticipated. Uncontrolled forest fires and market saturation made it difficult to recruit and develop farmer-retailer relationships in California. Farmer decisions to discontinue partnership with one retailer due to slow sales (Washington) and lack of capacity (Vermont). Farmer decision to discontinue participation in the study due to capacity (Vermont). The team recognized through this first full implementation period the need to understand customer demand and for a market analysis. In California, despite multiple planning meetings and development of a launch plan and marketing materials, implementation of the F3B was postponed until the 2018 growing season. The team met in early April 2018 to discuss modifications to the model in order to better serve the needs of the retailer and farmer specifically in California. Data from the 2017 growing season have been analyzed, shared, and discussed to identify gaps in knowledge of customer interest, which led to conduct of the national marketing survey. The team will use the data along with the consumer intercept surveys to strengthen the model for the upcoming season. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?The project team continues to learn from one another as full implementation occurs in each state. Notes from the field have been shared and discussed among team members. Additionally, the project is providing professional development to a graduate research assistant through the development of research materials, and through experience interviewing the pilot project partners. The graduate student receives one-on-one mentoring from the project PI through frequent meetings. This Spring, team members will gather in Burlington VT with local farmer-retailer pairs to discuss lessons learned, as well as how this project will incorporate and test the following North Eastern Regional Center for Rural Development (NERCRD) indicators: "Action" Indicator #8: Number of Farm and Retail Businesses Making Changes in Marketing or Business Management "Action" Indicator #11: Number of Volunteer Hours "Impact" Indicator #18: Number of Firms Retained "Impact" Indicator #19: Number of Jobs Retained How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Due to the delay in executing the funding award in Year One, we have few results to share with the target audience (farmers, retailers and consumers). However, in Vermont, the research and extension teams collaborated on a TV news story covering FFFB project (https://youtu.be/Qi8t2gHvIMk), which generated additional interest from the community. Extension in all sites have also continued training farmers and retailer store owners to support the creation of new relationships, and to assist with project data collection. Team members have presented papers on the pilot phase of the project and lessons learned at six (6) professional conferences, and are planning on attending one (1) in June (see products/publications section). Additionally, one article is forthcoming (see products/publications section). What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Planned Activities: Analyze results of national marketing survey to assess consumer interest in local foods and potential interest in the F3B model. Sufficient sample size has been collected to allow stratification by region. Conduct focus groups and consumer intercept surveys, and analyze results to determine best channels for local marketing efforts. Continue to implement full project in Vermont, California and Washington in year 3 of the grant. With each farmer-retail pair, the following activities will occur: • Outreach to recruit new farmer-retailer pairs to replace those who have dropped out. • Formal briefing with each pair to obtain consent, and review research tracking responsibilities. • Informal planning session of logistics with farmer/retailer (phone or in person). • Development of marketing plan and strategy, based on findings from local marketing research. • Ordering and delivery of marketing, tracking and shipping materials. Evaluate impact of marketing efforts. Collect data and conduct analysis of F3B purchaser opinion surveys, sales data, post-season interviews with farmer-retailer pairs. Further disseminate findings through conference presentations and publications in peer review journals.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Obj 1. Develop an innovative, low-risk market channel for farmers in three geographic areas. Major activities completed: VT/WA Extension met with farm/retail (F/R) pairs, incl site visits, arranging marketing and packing materials, holding meetings/follow-ups, reporting, and problem-solving. Summary statistics and discussion of results: Team discussed ongoing interactions and implementation progress with continuing VT and WA F/R, as well as recruitment efforts of CA F/R. Meeting notes archived for use in writing and development of technical assistance (TA) materials for transferability. Team held in-person meeting in April 2018 to discuss qualitative data from F/R post-season interviews, used to inform planning summer 2018. Key outcomes or other accomplishments realized: 3 VT F/R from pilot continued in 2017. VT sold combined total of 40 bx/18 wks. Of 3 farms/4 retail recruited in WA 1 retail was discontinued by farmer due to slow sales. WA sold combined total of 210 bx/44 wks. Obj 2. Create opportunities for retail sites to provide local products at no-risk resulting in associated sales. Major activities 2.1 completed: Customized marketing materials provided to F/R, incl. Facebook page, logo, posters, handbills, and sandwich boards. WA featured program in newsletters and presentations. VT Extension developed recipe cards and online presence. All Extension supported in troubleshooting, communication problems, and other issues. Data collected: F/R provided input to customize marketing material. Post-season interviews with retailers included questions about effectiveness of materials, Extension assistance. Summary statistics/results: F/R feedback on marketing materials used to make improvements. Input on retailers' specific TA needs will inform next season. Key outcomes realized: Team discussed marketing on bi-monthly calls. Information archived for use in writing and development of TA materials for transferability. Major activities 2.2 completed: Logistics for ordering, packing, delivery and financial transactions were coordinated by F/R with TA from extension in VT/WA sites. Weekly in-person visits to 2 retailers in WA provided timely support and response to questions and materials requests. 3rd WA retailer was contacted by phone to offer assistance and respond to questions. VT provided weekly in-person assistance to 2 retailers, as well as check-ins by phone/email; and check-ins with 3rd by phone, email, and periodic visits. Data collected/Summary statistics and results: Team discussed logistics during regular marketing phone calls and on bi-monthly calls. F/R pairs were asked to record logistical information in tracker, which was collected end of season. Each F/R was asked about effectiveness of tracker data collection. In addition, data from interviews and team discussions archived for use in writing and TA materials development for transferability. Key outcomes realized: This step has further helped create robust relationships between F/R pairs, create environment that increases revenue and farm viability while supporting local stores previously unable to stock fresh foods. Major activities 2.3 completed: TA was provided in the form of: facilitating F/R partnerships, logistical guidance for implementation, marketing material development at all sites. Data collected/Summary statistics and results: Team discussed process and outcome of TA delivery in team calls. This information is archived for use in writing and TA materials development for transferability. F/R were asked to evaluate TA quality, with emphasis on improvements. Positive feedback/suggestions provided by all F/R. Key outcomes realized: Currently F/R pairs are well informed and equipped to realize success in sales. Obj 3. Provide rural consumers with access to healthy foods at affordable prices in an accessible, convenient, and "comfortable" location, with little perceived risk. Major activities completed: Tracking form revisions made to ensure F/R could complete data entry reliably and without undue burden. Increased communication between the extension and research teams instituted to support better data collection throughout season. Data collected: Retailer information on tracking forms, including qty boxes sold and collateral sales. Summary statistics/results: Data under analysis. Key outcomes realized: data collection reliable across states. Obj4. Assess market potential for F3B in rural communities in 3 geographically areas. Major activities completed: VT staff completed community profiles for CA, VT and WA to better understand the context. Team developed brief marketing survey, administered as national consumer panel in spring 2018, using Diffusion of Innovation framework to assess consumer likelihood of purchasing F3B based on perceived qualities of product. Information about consumer perceptions and use of other direct to consumer sales venues also collected. Data collected: Community profiles collected indicators including demographics, economic characteristics, agricultural landscape, and food accessibility. National consumer panel included questions about locations where respondents purchase produce, opinions on the FFFB model, and demographic information. Summary statistics / results: Data is currently being cleaned for analysis. Obj 5. Measure economic impact of project returns to F/R and regional economy; Compare of FFFB project to farmers, retailers and consumers with benefits and barriers of other direct sales approaches. Major activities completed: Research staff conducted post-season interviews with F/R from each active site. Standard form was developed to document extension perceptions during fieldwork. Data collected: Developed interview guides addressing barriers/challenges of F3B approach, and conducted post-season interviews with each F/R in Nov. '17-Feb. '18. Data under analysis. Fieldwork form was developed to capture Extension experiences. Summary statistics/results: Extension data being cleaned and analyzed. Post-season interviews with farmers/retailers indicated importance of farmer-retailer relationship. F/R indicated need for more marketing/advertising and adjustment to box cost. Key outcomes realized: Information being integrated into 2018 season planning. Obj 6. Measure acceptability and use of F3B among consumers. Major activities completed: Extension ensured farmers packed consumer surveys in boxes weekly. Team streamlined survey due to low rate of return. Data collected: Collected 12 surveys across 4 sites (VT/WA). Summary statistics/results: Most respondents were older, white, middle-income women living close to store, habitually shop other DTC venues; 5 frequently shopped at retailer. Most heard about F3B through advertisements posted in store. Majority expressed satisfaction with quality and variety of produce, value, ease of ordering, and interactions with retailers. 2 respondents disliked inconsistent pick-up times, and inconvenience vs grocery store. Most felt advantages made F3B worthwhile. 50% respondents purchased add'l items during pick-up. Key outcomes realized: Most were satisfied with F3B, stating good quality/variety of produce. Customers also frequently were very satisfied with ease of ordering, value for cost, and interactions with retailers. F3B seems a promising way to draw customers into rural stores but may require carefully planned external advertising to be successful. Obj 7. Determine best practices in FFFB approach and disseminate information widely to F/R in rural communities. Major activities completed: Team continues to determine best practices in the FFFB approach using aforementioned data collection materials. Data collected: In-season consumer surveys, post-season F/R interviews, extension reflections, and in-season sales tracking. Summary statistics/results: Data collected has not been analyzed and synthesized. Analysis will be completed in time to make adjustments for the 2018 growing season.
Publications
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Sitaker, M., Roche, E., Becot, F., Chase, L., Estrin, H., Greco, L., Smith, D., Van Soelen, J., Kolodinsky, J. (2017) "Farm fresh food boxes open new markets for farmers and retailers, and benefit rural economies." Agriculture, Food and Human Values Society (AFHVS) /Assocation for the Study of Food and Society (ASFS). June 14-17. Los Angeles, CA.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Chase, L., Becot, F., Estrin, H., Greco, L., Kolodinsky, J., Roche, E., Sitaker, M., Smith, D., Van Soleon Kim, J. (2017). "Farm fresh food boxes: Expanding rural economies through new markets for farmers and retailers." National Association of Community Development Extension Professionals. June 12-14. Big Sky, MT.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Smith, D. K., Roche, E., Becot, F., Chase, L., Estrin, H. Greco, L., Sitaker, M. Van Soelen Kim, J., Wang, W., Kolodinsky, K. (2017). Farm Fresh Food Boxes: Increasing Food Access in Rural Communities through New Markets for Farmers and Retailers. Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior Annual Conference. Poster Session, Washington D.C.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Smith, D. K., Roche, E., Becot, F., Chase, L., Estrin, H. Greco, L., Sitaker, M. Van Soelen Kim, J., Wang, W.W., Kolodinsky, J. (2017, November). Farm Fresh Food Boxes: Direct to consumer strategy for increasing food access and economic vitality. Poster session at the annual conference of the Tilth Alliance, Vancouver, WA.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Wang, W., Sitaker, M., Chase, L., Estrin, H., Becot, F., Greco, L., Roche, E., Smith, D. Van Soelen Kim, J., & Kolodinsky, J. (2017, August). Innovations in rural development: Farm fresh food boxes. Panel session presentation at the annual meeting of the Agriculture and Applied Economic Association (AAEA), Chicago, IL.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Sitaker, M., Kolodinsky, J., Estrin, H., Greco, L., Chase, L., Wang, W., Smith, D., Van Soelen Kim, J. (2018, June). Consumer response to Farm Fresh Food Boxes, an entrepreneurial partnership betwen farmers and retailers. Presentation session at the annual meeting of the Agriculture, Food and Human Values (AFHVS)/Association for the study of Food and Society (ASFS), Madison, WI.
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Awaiting Publication
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Smith, D.K., Greco, L., Van Soelen Kim, J.E., Sitaker, M., Kolodinsky, J. (2018) Farm Fresh Food Box: An innovative new business model in rural communities, Rural Connections.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Smith, D. K., Chase, L., Estrin, H. Greco, L., Sitaker, M. Van Soelen Kim, J., Wang, W., Kolodinsky, J. (2018, March). Farm Fresh Food Boxes: An integrated research and extension project to address access to healthy, affordable food by connecting farmers, retailers, and consumers. Poster session at the annual WSU Academic Showcase, Pullman, WA.
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Progress 04/15/16 to 04/14/17
Outputs
Target Audience:In the 3 study states (Vermont, Washington State, and California), the project team is striving to support local economies by opening new markets for farmers, increasing foot traffic in small rural stores, and increase access to fresh produce for rural residents. Furthermore, to support access of low income households to fresh produce, the project team either selected retailers who already accept SNAP/EBT, or is working to help the retailers with the paperwork to start accepting SNAP/EBT. The start of the grant was delayed and prevented full implementation of the project in year 1. As a result the team relied on existing networks in Vermont to conduct a pilot project to test processes and research instruments in year 1. The pilot phase of the project was conducted during Fall of 2016 (October 14-December 22, 2016) with three Vermont communities: Jericho, Fairlee, and Waterville. During the pilot project, 3 farmers and country-store owners participated and collectively sold 15 food boxes. During the pilot study, the extension team provided training and supported the establishment of farmer-retailer partnerships and marketing support. In year 2 of the grant, the project will reach 4 farmers and retailers pairs in Vermont and 4 retailers and 3 farms (one farm will deliver to two retail sites) in Washington State. Recruitment for retailers and farmers is under way in California but the aim is 4 farmers and retailers pairs. Changes/Problems:During year one of the project, the team chose to conduct a pilot phase in three Vermont communities, rather than implement the full project. This was done because the award of the project was delayed which affected the project timeline. The project team decided to rely on existing relationships in Vermont between extension and local retailers and farmers to launch the pilot. This had two major benefits, it enabled the team to develop research and outreach material and to learn best practices from the pilot project. The team learned key lessons during the pilot project and they are being used to inform the full phase of the project in Spring of 2017. Specifically, the research team has adjusted data collection and tracking methods to improve compliance and data quality, which was not strong in the pilot. Extension has also clarified store payment expectations, which was omitted from the pilot project. During the first year of the grant there were staff changes that created some challenges: Co-PI Van Soelen in California was on personal leave during year 1 in the project but she still participated in team meetings and contributed feedback. In year 2 she will be back on the project fully. Co-PI Sitaker moved to a new institution that does not have an Institutional Review Board (IRB). UVM IRB has agreed to add Sitaker to its IRB but does not allow her to directly communicate with participants. As a result, Sitaker's statement of work was adjusted and her extension partner has agreed to do all recruitment and interact with participants. Project manager Roche left her position at UVM in winter 2017. Recruitment for her replacement is underway and for the time being her tasks have been divided among project staff. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?The project team is learning from one another through the implementation of the pilot project. In particular, the Vermont team has shared its experience with the pilot project and feedback received from retailers and farmers to adjust the project in year 2. The project is providing professional development to a graduate research assistant through the development of research materials, and through experience interviewing the pilot project partners. The graduate student is receiving one-on-one mentoring from the project PI through frequent meetings. This summer, team members will present at three professional conferences on the pilot phase of the project and lessons learned. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?We have just completed year one of the grant, and some activities were delayed due to delays executing the funding award. At this point, we have few results to share with communities of interest. However, in Vermont, extension has provided training for farmers and retailer store owners to support the creation of new relationships, and to assist with project data collection. Team members also plan to present papers on the pilot phase of the project and lessons learned at three professional conferences (see products/publications section). Furthermore, the University of Vermont ran an online news story covering the Food Box project (https://www.uvm.edu/newsstories/news/uvm_receives_usda_grant_spearhead_new_farm_to_consumer_model_be_implemented_three). What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Planned Activities Implement full project in Vermont, California and Washington in year 2 of the grant. With each pair, the following activities will occur: An informal planning session with farmer/store (phone or in person). The revision or design of marketing plan and strategy. The ordering and delivery of marketing, tracking and shipping materials. A formal briefing with retailers and farmers to obtain consent, and review of market logistics and research tracking responsibilities. The finalization of written F3B site logistics plan, marketing and sales. During Season: Marketing and sales conducted based on market plan, regular phone and email follow-ups made as needed to facilitate weekly tracking and reporting. Post Season: follow-up interviews completed, participants sent compensation for research related activities, as per consent agreement. Recruitment is underway in California. Washington State has recruited 4 retailers and 3 farmers. Vermont has recruited at four farmer-retailer pairs in four separate counties. Complete community profiles for all Vermont, Washington and California member communities Collect pre-season demographic data from all farmer and retailer partners Administer weekly tracking surveys for farms and stores, throughout the season Conduct post-season qualitative interviews with all farmer and retailer partners Work with local media outlets to disseminate information about the project Activities to respond to lessons learned during pilot project Improve collaboration and communication between research and extension teams to ensure consistent project implementation and data collection Refine marketing materials and logistical plans to ensure a smooth spring phase of the project Preform pre-season phone training for famers and retailer partners to ensure consistent and accurate data collection throughout the season
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Objective 1. Finalize recruitment of Farmers and retail sites Major activities completed: -Completed recruitment of 3 farms and 3 retail sites in Vermont for Fall 2016 Pilot Project. This included generating recruitment lists, conducting recruitment calls and emails, team meetings, site visits to farms and stores, planning and production of marketing and packing materials, planning farm - store meetings and follow-ups, reporting, and problems solving. -Currently recruiting farmers and retailers for 2017 full project implementation. Washington has confirmed 3 retailers and 2 farmers so far. Vermont has confirmed 4 farmers and 4 retailers. Recruitment is underway in California. Data collected: Data were collected during the Vermont pilot project from 2 retailers and 3 farmers. Post season interviews were also conducted with the same participants. Preliminary data is being used to inform the full project implementation. Summary statistics and discussion of results: Summary statistics and results have been discussed with the project team. Key outcomes or other accomplishments realized: Completion of this objective has increased awareness and knowledge of the FFFB model in retailers and farmers in Vermont. Furthermore, this has improved the capacity for farmers and retailers to network with one another to improve sales through collaboration, and provide better access to local food to consumers. Approximately 15 consumers in Vermont have been impacted through increased knowledge of and access to local foods. Three farms in Vermont participated in a brief pilot season between October and December 2016. During the pilot season, the stores developed marketing plan and materials, recruited retail partners, and sold a combined total of 15 boxes, bringing in sales revenue of $490. The Extension and research team worked together to synthesize findings and develop best practices for farmers, retailers, and research/Extension colleagues interested in working with rural communities to implement FFFB. Objective 2. Provide FFFB marketing materials to sites and farmers Major activities completed: Marketing materials, including a FFFB website, logo, posters, and sandwich boards were developed/purchased and provided to all retailers in VT pilot project and are being developed for all partners for Spring 2017 implementation. Data collected: feedback on marketing material was solicited from all project partners. Summary statistics and discussion of results: Feedback on marketing material was used to improve on marketing material. Key outcomes or other accomplishments realized: Through the pilot, we learned best practices for planning, preparing and marketing the FFFB concept. Furthermore, this marketing has helped to increase knowledge and viability of the FFFB model. Objective 3. Set up FFFB delivery system between farmers and sites Major activities completed: Delivery logistics are coordinated between retailer - farmer partners with technical assistance from extension personnel. This was completed during the pilot project and is in development for the full project. Data collected and Summary statistics and discussion of results: The research and extension team has discussed on bi-monthly calls the process and outcomes of recruitment. This information is archived for use in writing and development of technical assistance materials which will make this project transferrable. Key outcomes or other accomplishments realized: This step has further helped in creating robust relationships between new retailer - farmer pairs, which has created an environment that increases revenue and farm viability while also supporting local stores previously unable to stock fresh, local foods. Objective 4. Provide technical assistance to farmers and sites Major activities completed: Technical assistance was provided in the form of: facilitation of farmer - retailer partnerships, logistical guidance for project implementation, marketing material development Data collected and Summary statistics and discussion of results: The project team discusses the process and outcome of technical assistance delivery in bi-monthly team calls. This information is archived for use in writing and development of technical assistance materials which will make this project transferrable. Key outcomes or other accomplishments realized: Currently recruited farmer-retailer pairs are well informed and equipped to realize success in the sales of food boxes. Objective 5. Develop data collection materials Major activities completed: Farmer and retailer pre-season demographic surveys, consumer surveys, Farmer and retailer tracking forms, and qualitative interview guides were developed for the VT pilot. Revisions were made after data collection for the full project implementation. Data collected: Demographic data from retailers and farmers was collected, some tracking data was collected, and post - season interviews were conducted in Vermont. Summary statistics and discussion of results: These are being analyzed. Key outcomes or other accomplishments realized: Through the pilot phase, we learned the difficulties that the retailers and farmers face in providing reliable and consistent data, and amended our data collection tools to ensure quality data collection for the full phase of the project. Objective 6. Insure program and data collection fidelity Major activities completed: Revisions to the tracking forms were made to ensure farmers and retailers could complete data entry reliably and properly. Increased communication between the extension team and the research team has been implemented to support better data collection throughout the season. Data collected: Farmer information on tracking forms Summary statistics and discussion of results: Data are being analyzed. Qualitative analysis from the pilot phase have led to changes in both the farmer and retailer tracking forms that were originally developed. Key outcomes or other accomplishments realized: data collection during the pilot phase will be robust, consistent, and reliable across all sites and states. Objective 7. Develop materials for extension Community of Practice Major activities completed: The three state teams are currently operating as an informal community of practice. Data collected: Through bi-monthly conference calls and an electronic sharing platform, the community of practice is sharing materials for use during the project and beyond. Summary statistics and discussion of results: We have an electronic depository of all materials used in the execution of a food box project. Key outcomes or other accomplishments realized
Publications
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Chase, L., Becot, F., Estrin, H., Greco, L., Kolodinsky, J., Roche, E., Sitaker, M., Smith, D. K., and Van Soelen, K. (2017). Farm fresh food boxes: Expanding rural economies through new markets for farmers and retailers. Paper to be presented at The Community Development Society and National Association of Community Development Extension Professionals Joint Conference, Big Sky, MT. June 11-14, 2017.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Sitaker, M., Becot, F., Chase, L., Estrin, H., Greco, L., Kolodinsky, J., Roche, E., Smith, D. K., and Van Soelen, K. (2017). Farm fresh food boxes open new markets for farmers and retailers, and benefit rural economies. Paper to be presented at the Agriculture, Food, & Human Values Society and Association for the Study of Food and Society Joint Annual Conference, Los Angeles, CA. June 14-17, 2017.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Smith, D. K., Becot, F., Chase, L., Estrin, H., Greco, L., Kolodinsky, J., Roche, E., Sitaker, M., and Van Soelen, K. (2017). Farm fresh food boxes: Increasing food access in rural communities through new markets for farmers and retailers. Paper to be presented at the Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior Annual Conference, Washington, DC. July 20-24, 2017.
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