Title:

From Seed to Sourdough​ and Barley to Beer:​ Values-based grain supply chain models to support mid-scale farm viability in the Upper Northeast

The industrialization and commodification of grains has had major environmental, health, and economic implications for Americans. Pushing back against this commodity system, alternative grain networks are emerging in the form of collaborations between farmers, millers, bakers, maltsters, and brewers creating localized grain supply chains. These grain chains are part of a broader movement toward the development of values-based supply chains in the food system, in which business entities form long-term, strategic partnerships based on shared extra-economic values like sustainability and equity and deliver value-added and differentiated products. However, little research exists on the structure and development of regional grain value chains, or the governance mechanisms employed in values-based food supply chains more broadly. This research aims to understand the persistence of three established regional grain chains in the Upper Northeast U.S., where grain production is particularly challenging but nonetheless present. In-depth interviews with 41 grain growers, processors, and end-users shed light on how these partnerships form, how the grain chains are organized, and the biggest obstacles they face. Working collaboratively and developing resilient business partnerships proves essential for these grain value chains to succeed. Navigating storage, pricing, contracts, crop performance, and financial viability are a few of the many challenges grain chains face. The findings highlight the partnership strategies and governance mechanisms that support risk-sharing and mid-scale farm viability, allowing these value chains to persist despite the odds.

Name

Comment*

Comments are viewable only by submitter

Captcha*