Accessing Local Produce

Wisconsin is experiencing much statewide excitement surrounding the 'growth' of Farm to School (F2S) programming both nationally and in the state. F2S aims to connect local farms with schools to serve more healthful, locally produced foods to students; provide unique nutrition education opportunities; and improve Wisconsin's economy by developing new markets for farmers. These activities include everything from procuring one or more local items for the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Snack program and other child nutrition programs to school gardens to local food tastings and more!

F2S Resources to Getting Started

• Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction Farm to School Webpage - assists schools in starting F2S activities specific to Wisconsin
• USDA Farm to School Website - assists schools in starting or expanding their F2S activities
• National Farm to School Network - provides free training and technical assistance, information services, networking, and support for policy, media and marketing activities
• Robert Wood Foundation Center to Prevent Childhood Obesity Webinar - Improving Food Quality with Farm to School Programs, March 11,2010
• Research, Education, Action and Policy (REAP) Food Group

Purchasing and Serving Safe Locally Grown Fruits and Vegetables

USDA encourages schools to purchase locally grown, minimally processed, agricultural products. The state of Wisconsin considers any farmer to be an approved food source. However, it is beneficial for schools to establish a standard process for purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables from local growers. Licensing applies only for processed produce. The following documents provide further information about purchasing Wisconsin grown fruits and vegetables:

• Purchasing Guidelines
  • Purchasing Flow Chart - includes guidance on geographic preference
  • Vendor Contact Record
  • WI State Regulations for Buying Locally Grown Foods - Pages 95-109
• Eat Smart - Farm Fresh! - USDA guide to buying and serving locally grown produce
• Safe Food Handling - Information on food safety and preparation

Wisconsin Growers

• Chart of When Wisconsin Grown Produce is Available
• Local Harvest - Database of local growers
• WI Farm Fresh Atlases - Regional farm
• WI Fresh Market Vegetable Growers Association - Additional farm listings for vegetables
• Savor Wisconsin - Wisconsin Food Products Search Engine
• WI Farmers Markets Directory
• County UW Extension Office - Assist to locate local farmers and producers.

For questions about this information, contact Julie A. Cox (608) 267-9206

Last updated on 7/19/2011 11:32:57 AM