The Journal of Agriculture, Food Systems, and Community Development (JAFSCD), is the world's only open-access, transdisciplinary journal focused solely on food and farming-related community development. JAFSCD uses a double-blind, peer review process with expert reviewers who include researchers, scholars, and food systems professionals working in the field. 

It is the trade journal for anyone who works on the community side of local and regional food systems development.

AgriCluster Retention and Expansion (ACRE) is a holistic strategic planning process for complex value chain enterprises, agroecological initiatives, and community food projects in which farmers are involved.

The in-depth facilitated ACRE process is designed to help farmers and their allied stakeholders create a shared vision and work effectively together to become more competitive and resilient as a group over time. 

The course is offered free of charge to NAFSN members during 2023. Graduates may also join the ACRE Community of Practice.

Click here to learn more.

The Community Food & Agriculture Resilience Audit Tool (CARAT) helps communities discover and identify strengths, gaps, and areas of concerns in their food systems.

This comprehensive assessment tool has been created by a small committee of community food systems leaders from throughout the US. Resilience indicators were prioritized using Delphi metrics in collaboration with the University of Florida. Beta tested started at Indiana University and will continue with pilot communities throughout the US.

Debra Tropp, formerly of USDA AMS, chairs this effort.