Read more about the process of building out our latest report: How the Alaska “Food Hub” Network Can Best Move Forward. According to report author Ken Meter, "This report represents a crucial step towards building a more resilient and effective food hub network in Alaska. By identifying common challenges and offering innovative solutions, we can ensure the continued growth and success of our local food systems."
Consumers With a Conscience: The Evolution of Food Co-ops
National Garden Month Guest Blog: The Benefits of Home Gardening
My year with AFPC
Reflections on the 2024 Just Transition Summit
Alaska Farmland Trust Reflects on the 2022 Ag Census Data
Rhodiola Project Launch with NW TOPP
Relationships, Resources & Resilience: Building Community with the US Virgin Islands
This past February, fresh off the heels of Food Security Fly-in Week in Juneau, I had the honor of traveling with other Islands & Remote Areas Regional Food Business Center partners to St. Croix, USVI, to attend the 52nd AgriFest and to support the Virgin Islands Good Food’s inaugural Island Food System Summit.
Building Hydroponic Growing & Seed-Saving Knowledge for Alaskans
Preserving Alaska's Food Security: AFPC’s Advocacy for the No Action Alternative on (d)(1) Lands
As advocates for a resilient and sustainable food system in Alaska, the Alaska Food Policy Council (AFPC) is deeply invested in ensuring the protection of food security for all Alaskans. In response to the Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) on the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) 17(d)(1) Withdrawals of 28 million acres in Alaska, the AFPC recently submitted comments in support of the No Action Alternative (Alternative A).
How Policy Can Build A Better Food System
On Wednesday, February 14th, AFPC staff along with staff and farmers from the Farm Bureau of Alaska, testified before both the Senate and House Resources Committees. We were there providing feedback on both the Governor’s CROP Act (HB296/SB211) and efforts to date of the Alaska Legislative Food Strategy Task Force. As the Regional Food Business Center Co-Director I felt it was important to focus my testimony on helping smaller food producers of all kinds; mariculture, kelp, farmers and more.
SNAP Backlog’s Effect on Our Communities
Alaska is one of the most expensive states to live in. With our vast lands and remote communities, food can be costly or scarce and many Alaskans struggle to meet basic needs. About 1 in 10 Alaskans live in households that are food insecure – without adequate access to good nutrition. Learn more about how the SNAP backlog is affecting our communities and our anti-hunger programs.
2024 Food Security Fly-In Recap
Juneau witnessed a powerful gathering of food advocates, as dozens of individuals from across the state converged upon Alaska’s capitol building to champion the cause of food access and security. Under the banner of “Everyone Eats! Food Security Week,” these advocates brought a resounding message of support and encouragement to legislators embarking on the state budget process and engaged in policy making.
Food Security Week 2024
AFMA Programs Support Our Food System From Producer to Consumer
Food Insecurity For Alaska's College Students
Maximizing Federal Resources for Alaska's Kids: A Missed Opportunity With Summer EBT
In January, Alaska decided not to participate in the 2024 USDA Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) program, citing administrative costs that would outweigh the benefits. Forgoing the USDA Summer EBT program in Alaska exacerbates challenges faced by already strained food banks and pantries across the state.