By Scout Nelson
This week, students in the Grand Forks region of North Dakota are getting a hands-on education about local potatoes, thanks to the Fresh from North Dakota School Lunch Week. From September 30 to October 4, 2024, local agriculture takes center stage in an effort to connect youth with the foods they eat and the local economy.
The North Dakota Department of Agriculture, alongside the Department of Public Instruction and the Northland Potato Growers, will conduct visits to two area elementary schools on October 2nd and 3rd.
These visits are aimed at educating students about the role of potatoes in the state’s agriculture and encouraging healthier eating habits through the donation of potatoes to Grand Forks Public Schools.
Additionally, students will participate in a "crunch off" competition, which involves seven states and focuses on encouraging the consumption of locally grown produce. This engaging activity not only promotes healthy eating but also fosters a sense of community and state pride among the participants.
In the evening of October 2nd, a special event at the UND Wellness Center Culinary Corner will feature a potato cooking demonstration by Chef Heather Schneider.
This free event, open to UND students, staff, and faculty, highlights creative culinary uses for potatoes, reinforcing the importance of local produce in nutrition.
Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring emphasizes the benefits of such programs, stating, “Highlighting high-quality raw commodities such as potatoes helps students learn how their food is produced.”
He further notes that school lunch programs are pivotal in supporting local and state economies by purchasing locally produced and processed foods.
Through these initiatives, North Dakota not only educates its youth about local agriculture but also supports its farmers, contributing to a sustainable local food system.
This week-long event is a prime example of how educational institutions can play an active role in promoting local agriculture and fostering an appreciation for locally sourced food among young people.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-npantos
Categories: North Dakota, Crops, Education