First nations development institute is supporting thirteen grassroots native food systems collaborators located in rural lowincome native communities across arizona michigan minnesota new mexico north…

First nations development institute is supporting thirteen grassroots native food systems collaborators located in rural lowincome native communities across arizona michigan minnesota new mexico north dakota south dakota texas and wisconsin. These farmers ranchers and processors are focused on expanding their operations to increase native food security within their tribal communities and broaden access to traditional foods including meat eggs honey maple products wild rice juneberries and produce. The project will assist these stakeholders in developing and implementing marketing networks improving food safety and handling procedures and establishing efficient transportation systems. Anticipated outcomes include increased community and regional accessibility to traditional native foods which will revitalize cultural foodways. The projects primary goal is to empower these producers to enhance the availability of local food sources and bolster the wellbeing of the communities they serve.