News
Farm-to-school bill introduced in Nebraska
Nebraska state Senator Tom Brandt introduced farm-to-school legislation to connect local producers with schools to fill their food needs.
Brandt tells Brownfield the bill is meant to serve two purposes.
“The first part would be a database matching up buyers and sellers,” he said. “And then the second part of the farm-to-school program is to create an awareness and an appreciation for agriculture in the state.”
He said the database would allow producers to match with schools based on their volume and food preparation requirements. Brandt said Legislative Bill 396 bill would also provide an educational aspect to teach students about agriculture including aspects like farm visits.
“Agriculture needs a lot of young talent,” he said. “We need to show them the advantages of agriculture and the opportunities that are out there.”
Brandt said too many young people are leaving rural areas to pursue opportunities in cities. Brandt said if passed, the program could be ready by September 1, which is near the start of the school year.
