Join North Dakota Mountain Plains Crunch Off

By Scout Nelson

North Dakota invites everyone to take part in the Mountain Plains Crunch Off, a friendly competition that celebrates Farm to School Month this October. The event challenges participants to enjoy a satisfying “crunch” of local produce or other minimally processed local food while showing support for North Dakota farmers.

The state is competing with six other states to record the most crunches per capita. Last year, more than 80,000 North Dakotans joined the event alongside thousands of people across the Mountain Plains region. This year, organizers hope even more schools, families, and community members will participate.

Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring encourages students, teachers, farmers, parents, and local food enthusiasts to register and join the fun. He explains that the Crunch Off not only promotes healthy eating but also supports local agriculture.

North Dakota schools now source more products from local farms each year, from apples and cucumbers to beef and bread, helping students learn where their food comes from.

Anyone interested in hosting a crunch event can register online to be counted in the state’s total. Events can be held any time through October 31, 2025. A Crunch Off Toolkit is available on the North Dakota Department of Agriculture website to help organizers plan their activities.

Farm to School Month takes place each October to highlight food education, school gardens, and meals made with local ingredients. The program encourages students to eat fresh, locally produced foods while learning more about farming and healthy eating.

For more details about the Farm to School program, contact the North Dakota Department of Agriculture or the Department of Public Instruction. By joining the Crunch Off, North Dakotans can celebrate local food, support farmers, and enjoy the taste of fresh produce grown close to home.

Photo Credit: farm-to-school