On the Path to a Resilient Urban Food System in a Rural State: A Mixed-Method Needs Assessment of Urban Producers and County Extension Agents in Arkansas

This project utilized a mixed-method needs assessment approach to urban agriculture in Arkansas, a predominately-rural state. Chapter II was a qualitative study, using semi-structured, in-depth interviews, that investigated the perceptions, needs, and experiences of Arkansas urban farmers and their interactions with the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture Cooperative Extension Service (CES). Interviews were conducted with 16 urban farmers in Northwest and Central Arkansas. The interview data revealed individualized needs based on the size, years in operation, and mission of each urban farmer interviewed. General needs were determined, such as market pricing, co-ops, and access to appropriate equipment, but generally needs varied widely. Participants revealed a positive perception of CES, though explaining that the organization did not always have resources specific to small-scale, sustainable farming, but there is potential for increased collaboration and communication between Arkansas urban farmers and CES. Future research with this population should follow a phenomenological approach in addition to specific needs assessments grouping farmers with similar production methods. Chapter III was a quantitative survey with Arkansas agricultural County Extension Agents (CEAs) that investigated their perceptions, awareness, and experiences with urban agriculture in their counties. This survey had a 57% response rate. The survey revealed potential barriers for agents to work with urban farmers in their counties, as well as their perceptions and awareness of urban farming. While 89.4% of participants viewed CES as a valuable resource for urban farmers, 70.2% reported concentrations of urban farming in their counties as relatively low or nonexistent. The interviews were conducted only in two regions of the state,; however, the survey questionnaire was distributed to CEAs statewide. Recommendations for practice include conducting needs assessments with groups not traditionally supported through CES, such as sustainable or alternative agriculture farmers. Additional needs assessments could improve collaboration and relationship building between CES and underserved populations, increasing face-to-face communication that contributes to increased collaboration between both populations. CES should also identify key personnel within their organization who have previously established relationships with urban farmers to market new programs and advertise CES’s role in urban agricultural support in their state. Acknowledgements I would like to thank my committee chair, graduate advisor, and friend, Mrs. Casandra Cox. Without your dedication, guidance, and support, I would not be where I am today. The countless edits and suggestions you have provided over the past two years have been so integral to this writing process, and I value your mentorship immensely. I do not know another person who would provide the support you have for me during this process, and I am beyond grateful that you welcomed me graciously as your advisee. You have modeled for me how to be an amazing mentor, and I will cherish my time at the University of Arkansas so much more because I was fortunate enough to be mentored by you. Thank you for everything you do, for believing in me, and for all of the work you have put in on my behalf. I would also like to thank Dr. Leslie Edgar, without whom this thesis would not have been possible. I am so grateful that you listened to me when I concocted this grand idea in my head, and guided me so that it could become the manuscript here today. You are such an inspiration to a young, aspiring, female academic like me, and I hope one day that I can be a mentor to my students as you have been to me. I am so grateful for everything you have done for me, your continued guidance and support, and the countless opportunities you have given me during my time at the University of Arkansas. I appreciate everything, and look forward to our continued work together! I would also like to thank Dr. Amanda Perez and Dr. Donna Graham. Thank you for all of your help with this process. You both have provided invaluable expertise in this study, and without your support, I would not have been able to collect the in-depth, rich data presented here. I appreciate your many edits, responses to emails, and guidance with this process. I am proud to have co-authored this paper with you both, as you have inspired me and pushed me to be a better writer, researcher, and professional. Finally, thank you to my amazing family. Mom and Dad, I cannot even put into words how much I appreciate you both for all of the sacrifices, love, and support you have given me. I am so lucky to have such great parents like you. Joe and Karla, without your love and support, I would not have made it through this program. Your generosity will never be forgotten, and I will cherish my time with you both forever. To Carly, for always being there for me. To Ashley, for being my sounding board, sister, and cheerleader. To Pawpaw, for being the best grandfather a girl could ask for, and for your endless love and support. Finally, to Jake, for all the love, support, and time you have given me over the past three years. Without you, my life would be so different, and I thank you for being my person, my rock, and my best friend. Table of