In recent years, consumers have become increasingly interested in where their food comes from and how their dollars can provide greater support for local food-related businesses and farmers. Over the same time period, policymakers and practitioners have gained new insights into the potential for regional food systems to promote economic growth for both rural and urban communities through the creation of new jobs or the enhancement of current jobs and businesses. Regional food system stakeholders have also learned that with appropriately targeted policies and support, the associated opportunities can advance the economic and financial security of low- and moderate-income households.

Harvesting Opportunity: The Power of Regional Food System Investments to Transform Communities explores these recent findings and highlights models for collaboration between policymakers, practitioners, and the financial community. The book is a collaboration of the Fed Board, St. Louis Fed, and U.S. Department of Agriculture. It discusses research, policy, and resource gaps that, if addressed, might contribute to the success of regional food systems strategies. Harvesting Opportunity includes a foreword by Fed Governor Lael Brainard and James Bullard, president and chief executive officer of the St. Louis Fed.

Read the publication, which can be viewed separately by chapter or downloaded in its entirety.