Completed Project Report


Reconnecting the farmer to the consumer in todays customer driven economy.

  • Award Amount: $35,932
  • Regional Center: Western Extension Risk Management Education Center
  • Grant Program: 2005 Competitive Grant Program
  • Project Director:
  • Email: kjkupers@ritzcom.net
  • Organization: Marketing Director Shepherd´s Grain

Extension RME Regional Centers
Extension Risk Management Education Region Map

Project Overview

Shepherd´s Grain provided information and tools to help farmers diversify from traditional export markets to regional direct markets. The Food Alliance supported this effort by providing materials and speakers for five one-day workshops spread throughout the Pacific Northwest wheat growing region. In addition to discussing the importance of third party verification of environmental or other marketing claims, we examined the skills, organization and investments necessary to succeed in direct and niche markets. Several farm enterprises were showcased in the Northwest that have successfully reconnected with consumers by understanding and responding to customer desires. One of our venues was in conjunction with the 2006 Direct Seed conference. Over 50 people participated in the conference and workshops.

Number of Participants: 50

Outcomes

Project Steps

PROMOTIONAL MATERIALS

There are no promotional materials available for this project.

EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS

There are no educational materials available for this project.

REPORTS & EVALUATIONS

There are no reports or evaluations available for this project.

DELIVERY AREA

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INDIVIDUAL STORIES / EXAMPLES OF SUCCESS / QUOTES