Planting a Seed for Future Growth

Farming is more than an industry on the Delmarva Peninsula. Agriculture is the backbone of this area and the Chesapeake Bay is rooted deeply in its heritage. Our principal farm products are feed grains: corn, soybeans, and wheat. Rapidly changing markets, competition from international sources, increased production costs, and a smaller customer base have eroded the stability of this agricultural community.

Chartered in 2000, CFI was formed to address the loss of profitability in traditional agricultural markets throughout the Delmarva Peninsula farms, which contain some of America's richest agricultural land. Since its inception, CFI has worked with local operating agribusiness and community leaders to develop a solid and innovative strategic plan to investigate and develop markets that are more profitable. In addition, CFI plans to educate its communities, its citizens, and future leaders about the importance and value of preserving and investing in America's existing farmlands. These projects are critical to our local communities, as two fifths of the farmers have left the business since 1992. Our project is the fusion of two critical elements: sustainable agriculture markets and community education about food supplies and land preservation. The coupling of these two elements, buttressed by environmental and natural resource stewardship, and safe, healthy food considerations, will serve as a model for other communities in America and nations worldwide.

Preservation through Profitability

CFI’s mission and vision will be realized through collaboration among area family farmers, community, government, business leaders, and institutions of higher education and even beyond. The CFI collaboration will result in the development of a community-based food systems enterprise that not only brings profit to our area farmers, but is also owned locally, operated with environmentally sound practices, and promoted through health and education entities.

Research and Funding

CFI has a diverse funding portfolio, with grants and donations from federal, state, and local government funding sources as well as from private foundations and individual donors. A majority of funds secured since the organization’s inception have been earmarked for research projects that will support the realization of both the economic development and educational programming initiatives. Cutting edge research projects driven by CFI’s academically and regionally diverse food research and marketing teams provide a solid foundation for all projects. To be built on the results of a preliminary market study (completed in March of 2002) and the results of a regional manufacturer survey, a formal feasibility study of a variety of potential value-added market opportunities (currently underway), is expected to pave the way for a sustainable and profitable agriculture in the Delmarva region.

Food Safety and Security

The tragic events of September 11, 2001 underscore the importance of CFI’s efforts. Government entities from the local to national level are calling for more regionally diversified and accountable food systems that would stand stronger in the face of potential food security threats. CFI’s development of a regionally based, farmer-owned value added system would support the emergence of a more diversified food system. A regionally based food system that is coupled with identity preservation capabilities (chain of custody, field of origin, etc.) will not only allow a more safe and secure food system to thrive, but will also add even greater value to be captured by farmers.

Structure and Staffing

Though currently structured as a nonprofit, CFI is currently exploring a number of business structures in an effort to determine which organizational arrangement will best support the emerging value-added system. Regardless of which structures are pursued, it is hoped that the facilities will be co-located. A volunteer Board of Directors, a full time Director, and a part time Staff Associate conduct CFI’s day-to-day operations. Area farmers, business professionals, and community/government leaders are actively engaged in the development and implementation of CFI’s projects.

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