Alternative vs. Conventional Supply Chains
(A Central Appalachian Foodshed Conference Session Topic)
Session Host: Elizabeth Spellman (WV Food and Farm Coalition)
Participants in this session examined agricultural supply chains, addressing key questions such as ‘what’s working for farmers?’, ‘does tapping into a broken conventional supply chain work better or should there be a separate supply chain for alternative food production systems?’, and ‘how can we create ownership structures in food systems that are appropriate for alternative systems?’ The group discussed multi-stakeholder, co-ops, food hubs, the role of governance in these alternative ownership models. They also talked about the creation of diversified market channels related to these questions, and the role of NGOs in this work.
Key Issues/Questions:
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What markets and supply chain strategies are working for farmers?
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Does tapping into a broken conventional supply chain work better or should there be a separate supply chain for alternative food production systems?
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How can we create ownership structures in food systems that are appropriate for alternative systems?
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How can we improve communication and knowledge sharing related to these questions and issues?
