Abstract
A convergence of factors led to the need to bring together a diverse group of stakeholders to empower small-scale farmers in the Alabama Black Belt Region to safely scale up operations and access new markets. In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, there is renewed interest from government, producers, and consumers in strengthening local and regional food systems. This has led to a greater number of wholesale and retail market opportunities for farmers in the region. A newly formed Alabama Black Belt Food Systems Alliance (ABBFSA) endeavored to gather stakeholders to advance the Black Belt Food Corridor (BBFC) food system. The planning committee’s engagement throughout the planning process led to an event where participants identified key components of a BBFC food system, reported gaining knowledge of resources, and met new people. Additionally, information was gathered to guide the development of the BBFC and ABBFSA.
Recommended Citation
Woods, Kristin and Shealey, Tana
(2026)
"Advancing the Alabama Black Belt Food Corridor: A Stakeholder-Driven Approach Through the Alabama Black Belt Food Systems Alliance,"
Professional Agricultural Workers Journal:
Vol. 10:
No.
1, 2.
Available at:
https://tuspubs.tuskegee.edu/pawj/vol10/iss1/2