Day 1: VT Values and Policy

Coming into this program, my knowledge of Vermont is pretty much limited to its great skiing and amazing maple syrup. Today's meetings were an overwhelming introduction to both Vermont and its food system, but I enjoyed the focus on policy and state-wide, systemic planning.

Awesome graphics on the wall at VSJF, the
backbone organization of Farm to Plate.

The Vermont Council on Rural Development (VCRD), Agency of Ag, and Vermont Sustainable Jobs Fund (VSJF) all discussed a strong Vermont identity surrounding community, nature, and a strong local economy. Coming from the New York City area, I've never experienced or imagined a state-wide set of values. It's really interesting to see these values being incorporated into politics, state planning, business models, and of course, food systems. I found Chuck Ross' (Secretary of Ag) comments on values-driven food systems particularly compelling - the idea that there's a small area where values and economic viability cross paths, and while this area can be difficult to find, economic viability is crucial in order for food policies to pass and receive funding.

I am considering a Minor in Statistics, so I was also intrigued by the data analytics on the Farm to Plate website, as well as Scott's visualizations and graphic design at VSJF. In an increasingly technological world, having data on every single aspect of Vermont's food system in one central website is extremely valuable, and I was impressed by its user-friendliness and wide range of information.

I am participating in this program as part of a sustainable food systems internship for one of my professors, and one of my internship focus areas is bringing ideas back to Duke in regards to how Duke can play a role in North Carolina's regional food system. So far, I can definitely see how unique Vermont is, and it would be nearly impossible to replicate the innovative work happening here, due to differing circumstances. It's clear, however, that keys to success include strong support from the state government and elected officials, Vermont values-driven programming, a viable landscape for food production, community participation, and cooperation among various public, private, and non-profit groups.