By Elisha Smith, former staff member
An increasing number of farmers are growing specialty crops such as fruits, vegetables, nuts and herbs for local markets in Nebraska. Many of them are looking for additional opportunities to provide fresh, healthy food to their community, such as in school meals.
But making the farm to school connection can sometimes be a daunting task.
So it’s timely that the Center for Rural Affairs is partnering with University of Nebraska Extension to offer several FREE farm to school trainings to Nebraska’s school food service staff and fruit and vegetable growers.
Farmers will learn techniques for connecting and working with schools including food safety regulations, navigating school order cycles, product demand, and packaging needs.
Food service staff and managers can learn techniques to work smarter, not harder, when finding and incorporating local fruits and vegetables.
This workshop will give farmers marketing knowledge and access to school food buyers. It’s a good opportunity to describe their crops and meet the school food service people who could become customers. In addition, farmers can learn just what produce or other farm products these Nebraska schools are looking for.
A complimentary lunch will be provided and will offer plenty of networking time.
Workshops kickoff in Brainard at East Butler Public Schools on February 6, 2016.
