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Our Roots
Kentucky ranks 5th in the nation for its number of farms, with tobacco historically the leading cash crop. However, tobacco is waning as a major revenue source for farm families, and those families must find other sources of income to keep their farms working.
More people each year want access to locally-grown food for a wide variety of reasons, including health, economics, community and the environment. Louisville Farm to Table seeks to increase the availability of local food in a variety of outlets, which will broaden consumer access.
Louisville Farm to Table grew out of the efforts of the Local Food Economy Work Group, a collaborative effort of elected officials from Henry, Oldham, Shelby, Spencer and Trimble Counties and the cities of Shelbyville and Louisville. Poet and farmer Wendell Berry, private sector individuals, and county cooperative extension agents also contributed to the creation of this project.
Louisville Metro's Office of Economic Growth and Innovation king on behalf of The Local Food Economy Work Group, commissioned a Regional Farmers Market Feasibility Study, which discovered the Louisville is a $3 billion food market. The study recommended key elements needed to increase Kentucky farmers' share of Louisville’s food market system. Specifically, the report called for a broker to create relationships and connect suppliers with consumers.
Louisville Farm to Table is made possible through generous grants and support from the Kentucky Agricultural Development Board , Department of Health and Human Services, and Mayors Healthy Hometown.
Click the below links to learn more about the Feasibility Study:
Executive Summary
Full Study
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