North Dakota's School Farm Success

By Scout Nelson

North Dakota has emerged as a leader in the mountain plains region for its extensive Farm to School programs, as revealed by the recent United States Department of Agriculture Farm to School Census. This initiative is a collaboration between the North Dakota Department of Agriculture and the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction, focusing on integrating local foods into school lunches and educational activities.

Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring highlights the state's success, noting, "North Dakota leads the region with 75% of school food authorities in the state serving local foods in school lunch.” This initiative not only educates students about the origins of their food but also allows them to interact with local producers and participate in activities such as taste testing, school gardening, and farm field trips.

State school superintendent Kirsten Baesler also emphasizes the educational benefits, stating, “Students who are well fed are better able to learn. That’s true of their teachers and principals too. And no one does a better job than North Dakota farmers and ranchers in supplying nutritious food for our school cafeteria plates.”

The program's success extends beyond meal provision to include serving local foods in salad bars, cultivating and offering culturally relevant foods, promoting local produce in schools, and organizing Farm to School family and community events. Such activities underline the program's comprehensive approach to fostering connections between education and agriculture.

Among the top local produce items served in North Dakota schools are beef, milk, baked goods, apples, and potatoes, which represent the rich agricultural tapestry of the region. These efforts not only support local farmers but also contribute to healthier school meal options, enriching the educational experience with practical, hands-on learning about food and nutrition.

North Dakota’s leadership in Farm to School initiatives demonstrates a commitment to enhancing educational outcomes through agricultural engagement, setting a benchmark for other states in the region.

Photo Credits:north-dakota-state-university