The Ideas and Stories section will try to further connect local growers with the communities they serve, which is one of the main goals of the initiative that was launched last year. Along with showing positive advancements for agriculture, the site will be a place where people can share ideas.
"By developing our local and regional food systems, we can spur job growth in our rural communities and ultimately strengthen American agriculture," Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said.
The USDA has noted that locally and regionally based food systems are growing in popularity among American consumers, especially as people work to try and support economies closer to home.
Another part of that popularity is having a more healthy lifestyle, which some people may feel will be better-fostered by purchasing food that is grown nearby. It also allows them to associate a face on the various agricultural products they bring home.
