New Appalachian Farm and Research Center offers research and workshops on food distribution. Buckhannon, WV (Upshur County)

General About the Organization/Mission

New Appalachian Farm and Research exists in order to conduct and promote research that will provide economic value to West Virginia farmers.

Basic Info

West Virginians spent $7.8 billion on food in 2012, according to the WV Small Farm Center.  But West Virginia agriculture grosses only $550 million. NAFARC was formed with the mission to route more consumer food dollars directly to West Virginia farmers. They work to increase demand for local produce and are building infrastructure for state farmers to package and market their produce in ways that would allow major grocery store chains to carry more local food. They work with the Farm to School program to bring a higher percentage of local food into the school meal system.

They also partner to run a program to help students start small agricultural projects in response to the need for a new generation of skilled farmers. The average age of a West Virginia farmer is 58 and climbing.

Issues of Focus

Farmer support and regional food economy

History of Organization

New Appalachian Farm and Research Center (NAFRC) was established in April 2008.

Programs and Projects 

• Farm-to-School Program

• Supervised Agricultural Experience

Partners and Frequent Collaborators

• Appalachian Regional Commission

Future Developments for This Wiki

• More on programs and how to get involved