In 2023, a group of organizations in New England set out to tackle an exciting goal: they want the region to produce 30% of its food by 2030. It’s a big challenge, and achieving it means New Hampshire and its neighbors need to take a close look at their local food habits.
To figure this out, each state is conducting a Local Food Count, which looks at how much food residents buy from local sources. This assessment will help create tailored plans that guide each state toward reaching that 30% food production goal. In 2022, New Hampshire found that only 3.1% of the food eaten in the state was locally sourced. So, the work is just beginning.
Thanks to efforts from over 20 organizations in the New Hampshire Food Alliance, a clear plan is now on the table. The 2025 New Hampshire Food and Agriculture Strategic Plan lists 140 recommendations to help improve the local food system. These ideas address various hurdles, like difficulties in meat processing facilities and labor shortages in farming.
Nicole Cardwell, who leads the New Hampshire Food Alliance, describes the plan as a crucial first step. “It’s about fostering deeper collaboration to make our food system stronger,” she said. This collaborative approach is essential, as it recognizes the significance of every stakeholder in the food chain.
The plan highlights specific challenges. For instance, dairy farming, which is a major part of New Hampshire’s agricultural landscape, faces significant issues. Dairy farmers deal with fluctuating milk prices and often lack support for equipment and veterinary services. Notably, there isn’t an advocacy group for local dairy farmers, which leaves them without a strong voice in the market.
To combat these struggles, the plan suggests actionable steps like implementing a tiered pricing system for milk and forming a New Hampshire Dairy Association to represent farmers’ interests.
The insights come from various experts, including those at the University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension. Shawn Jasper, the commissioner of the Department of Agriculture, Markets, and Food, describes the plan as a “comprehensive playbook” for future guidance. It’s about building a sustainable and resilient food system that reflects the values of the Granite State.
Jasper emphasizes that everyone plays a role in maintaining local agriculture. To keep food from New Hampshire in the lives and culture of its residents, a united effort is essential.
With sustainable practices on the rise, and more consumers interested in where their food comes from, this effort could not only help local farmers but also strengthen community ties. Recent statistics show that support for local food systems is growing; over 80% of consumers say they’ll choose locally sourced products when possible. This movement showcases a shift towards valuing local produce and supporting regional economies.
As communities rally together in New Hampshire and beyond, the dream of a 30% local food production rate could become a reality. It’s an exciting time for food producers and consumers alike.
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