P168 Farm to School Positions within State Agencies, Extension, and SNAP-Ed Programs

Abstract

Background Farm to school programs are a recommended strategy to improve dietary habits and nutrition. The National Farm to School Network (NFSN) prioritizes three state-level strategies to advance and institutionalize farm to school efforts: advocacy for farm to school policies, development of farm to school networks, and investments in farm to school positions at state agencies and in university Extension programs. Objective To describe and quantify the current farm to school positions at state agencies and in university Extension and those related to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education (SNAP-Ed) programs. Study Design, Settings, Participants Data about state-level farm to school positions were collected through surveys of NFSN Core and Supporting Partners conducted by NFSN between January-April 2018. The number of positions was reported, along with qualitative data (title, description, funding, duration, and agency/organization). Measurable Outcome/Analysis NFSN partner organizations and agencies in all 50 states, Washington, DC, and US territories (n = 53) responded. Results were grouped by positions in state agencies and positions in university Extension programs. Results There are 157 farm to school positions (part-time and full-time), with 98 in state agencies and 59 in university Extension. The majority of state agency positions are in departments of agriculture and departments of education. Positions based in departments of health, social services, and environment are less common. Although some are funded through legislation, in many cases they have come through administrative authority or amendments to an agency's or university Extension program's scope of work. Some positions are supported through state and federal grant funds. Three states reported a total of 12 positions connected with SNAP-Ed. Conclusion State-level farm to school positions are integral to improving nutrition through advancing farm to school activities. Further study is needed to assess their purpose and effectiveness and the potential for similar positions in other states. Funding Tides Center.