The Monadnock Food Co-op conducted its inaugural Producer Survey in March 2022 in partnership with the Cheshire Country Conservation District. The survey collected baseline data on the current state of businesses growing or making products in New England. A total of 110 producers completed the study, which was independently conducted and analyzed by The University of Wisconsin, River Falls Survey Research Center.
In February 2024, the Co-op concluded its second Local Producer Survey, gathering insights from 113 producers. The survey shed light on critical issues facing producers, with respondents identifying global climate change as their primary concern, followed closely by escalating input costs and the ongoing challenge of sustaining profitability.
"The survey provided some helpful insights into the challenges our local farmers and producers are facing and ways our Co-op can improve, and best support them. Respondents identified global climate change as the primary challenge they anticipate facing in the future, which is an area we began providing support with the Monadnock Food Co-op Farm Fund Disaster Relief funds this year. We want to continue this support." said Michael Faber, Monadnock Food Co-op General Manager. "A huge thank you to all who participated. We are looking forward to the work ahead!"
This survey aims to achieve several key objectives, including:
- Establishing a baseline on the current state of local businesses. (Conducted biennially, this survey will track progress and identify new trends over time.)
- Identifying opportunities to support and enhance the viability of these businesses.
- Cultivating a culture of environmental stewardship within the local community.
- Determining opportunities for investment, both in terms of time and funding, in the local food system.
- Assessing producer satisfaction with working relationships and identifying areas for improvement.
Your participation in this survey is crucial in helping us achieve these goals. Thank you for your ongoing support.
Local producers interested in selling (or selling more) to Monadnock Food Co-op can contact Store Manager Stephanie Wright at [email protected].
In 2022, the Co-op launched a quarterly Monadnock Food Co-op Producer E-Newsletter to boost communication with local producers. Sign up for the newsletter today.
