For more information or to order, click here . Ninety percent of U.S. agricultural output is produced by only 522,000 farms. The input and marketing sectors that dominate agriculture are controlled by a decreasing number of large companies. Half of all U.S. retail food purchases go to six multinational corporations, and similar economic concentration is seen in the input sector. The Fall series explores alternative farming systems for the Midwest that are able to remain economically viable without becoming very large.
Presentations describe and evaluate whole systems rather than specific practices.
The Spring series explores approaches to providing a more supportive environment for small farms through the relocalization of agriculture and the development of stronger ties between agriculture and the community. Ways to improve local food security in a global economy are presented.