Local Network |ˈləʊkəl ˈnɛtˌwərk | 
n. An interconnected group of people in a particular geographic region linked together to share and exchange information, collaborate in mutually-beneficial ways, and create a sense of community.

Farming is incredibly knowledge-intensive, and can be isolating. Participating in a Local Farmers Network - establishing relationships between local farmers - makes it easier to tap into the wealth of knowledge and resources that exist in farming communities. Networks can provide farmers with opportunities for cost-savings, learning, joint marketing, other collaborations, and/or resource sharing.

Each network is defined by its particular local challenges and opportunities and they can be more or less developed. Some are loosely organized social relationships, while others are more formal and structured. Networks can include a range of activities, from monthly potluck dinners and farm tours, to bulk orders of supplies, joint marketing, multi-farm CSAs, and more.

Network-in-a-Box

Want to help build your local network but not sure where to
start? This package of materials will help you get well on
your way.

1. Reflect on what you’re ready to take on.
Click here for thoughts to help you decide.

2. Bring people together.
Here are some ideas to help make sure it's a success.

3. Come with some of your ideas, and be ready to

     hear those of others.
Click here for examples of discussion prompts to get thoughts flowing.

4. Set some goals.
Choose activities to take on, both in the short and long term.
Click here to see a list of examples of activities.

5. Divide up the responsibilities.
It's important that everyone is on the same page about who is going to do what.

6. Make it happen! 
It can take effort to keep up the momentum, but it’s worth it!

   Farmer Network Activities

·      Overview  
This is a brief intro to some of the most common activities that farmer networks undertake. This is meant to be a useful starting point; you should always feel free to mix and match, adapt, and come up with new activities that best meet the needs of your network.  

·      Goals x Activites Matrix  
Quick reference to compare kinds of activities that a network might take on, and their likely outcomes.

Tip Sheets

Interested in developing your local network? Check out these tip sheets to make sure you’re ready and to get helpful ideas.

·      Why Get Involved in a Network  

·      Things to Consider Before You Begin Organizing 

·      Financial Benefits  

·      General Tips   

·      Potluck & Farm Tour Tips  

Profiles of Farmer Networks

Check out these snapshots of local farmer networks. They run the gamut in terms of their focus, their activities, and the challenges they face. Collect tips and get inspiration!

·   Mid-Hudons Valley Growers Network, New York 

·   Ad Hoc Network in Southwestern Wisconsin

·   The Center for Honeybee Research, North Carolina

·  An Expansive Network in Southwestern Colorado

Finding a Local Network

We created a Registry of Local Networks to help farmers connect and learn from each other. Search the registry by state, or network name. Find a network near you!

If you discover that a farmers network near you isn't listed, please click here and tell us about it!