Empowering Nevada’s Communities: Strengthening Local Food Systems Together

Nevada’s farmers face tough times. Heat waves, water shortages, and limited market access challenge the state’s 3,100 farms that provide fresh food. Competing against large producers from outside the state adds to their struggle. These bigger farms can ship products at lower costs, making it hard for local farmers to keep up. However, the need for locally sourced food is clear, as many consumers and restaurants want fresh, regional produce.

The University of Nevada, Reno is stepping in to help. Through its Experiment Station and Extension programs, the university is working to support local farmers. They aim to enhance the supply of fresh fruits, vegetables, and staples for the state’s 3 million residents.

“Our farmers are essential for food resilience,” said Jake DeDecker, the university’s Extension director. “We provide them with resources to grow more food locally, making our food system stronger.”

The pandemic highlighted how fragile food systems can be, leaving many Nevadans vulnerable to hunger. At one point, about 30% of households in the state faced food insecurity—much higher than the national average of 21%. Underserved communities struggled the most.

A recent report from Three Square revealed that nearly one in seven residents in southern Nevada is food insecure, with child hunger rising from 18% to 22% in the past year. Local leaders have prioritized addressing this issue.

The university’s research focuses on helping farmers adapt to the increasing dryness in Nevada. Chris Pritsos, an associate dean, highlights innovative research like drought-resistant crops and better irrigation systems. “We want to help farmers conserve water and boost their profits,” he said.

Some researchers are exploring new crop varieties like drought-tolerant sorghum and teff, which can yield more grain while using less water. These options could help farmers shift away from water-intensive crops, focusing on more sustainable agriculture.

The university also emphasizes the importance of collaboration among farmers. The Nevada Farm Network, launched in 2024, connects over 100 producers, sharing resources and knowledge. “This is about farmers helping farmers,” said Jill Moe, the initiative’s director. “It reduces risks by fostering communication.”

Alongside networking efforts, the Desert Farming Initiative offers training for new farmers. In its second year, the Nevada Farm Apprenticeship Program taught budding agrarians essential skills and provided support for launching their businesses.

Recent initiatives also target local food production and distribution. The Urban Indoor Farm Project, started in 2024, trains farmers to grow crops in controlled environments, addressing the challenge of producing fresh food in a hot desert region. “This provides a sustainable way to grow fresh vegetables year-round,” said Most Tahera Naznin, who leads the project.

Despite these efforts, funding is a significant barrier for farmers. Bill Payne, dean of the College of Agriculture at the university, emphasizes the importance of supporting small-scale farmers for broader community development. “They are essential for conservation and rural economic growth,” he noted.

In 2024, the university aims to secure more funding to expand outreach and research activities. With sustained support, Nevada can build a robust agricultural system that benefits all residents.

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