A Comparative Analysis of Farm-to-School Activity in Nova Scotia and Maine: An Institutional Perspective

Abstract

Focusing on a rural community in Colchester County, Nova Scotia, this research examines the Atlantic Canadian context for farm-to-school programs, gauging interest and attitudes and examining current barriers which prevent more locally grown food from being served in the school cafeteria. A major component of this research is a comparative case study using a successful American farm-to-school program in Hancock County, Maine. By way of comparative study, this research examines how stronger farm-school partnerships can be developed in Atlantic Canada. Results in Nova Scotia indicate financial and structural barriers, as well as a number of community assets, including a strong belief on the part of relevant stakeholders that farm-to-school programs have the potential to increase student health and foster economic well being for farmers. This paper puts forth recommendations and strategies for expanding farm-to-school programs in Nova Scotia based on results from the comparative case study.