What Role Do We Play in Local Food Systems?

University personnel, particularly Extension and Experiment Station faculty and staff, are on the front lines in terms of current trends in agriculture.  So it holds true for the local food movement. Horticulturists are no longer only interested in the production of fruits and vegetables, but also in the local value chain and consumer preferences. Scientists and specialists are now finding consumers to be as much a part of their audience and clientele as the farmers they have traditionally served. The local food movement has created new opportunities for training producers for selling to their local markets. We are also presented with the challenge of educating consumers about agriculture in general, and local products, specifically. Additionally, more home gardeners are becoming interested in backyard food production and urban farming practices. Schools and churches, civic organizations, and neighborhoods are showing increased interest in community gardens.  While Extension and Experiment Station personnel have traditionally been a resource for gardening advice and expertise, this new interest in urban agriculture takes basic gardening to the next level. New issues are being raised including food safety, postharvest handling and storage, marketing, and more. Horticulturists must become part of a team of experts to serve the varied interests involved in local food systems.