Results from a statewide needs assessment of Maine farmers are shared in this full report and summary. The information presented in the report reflects the results from a statewide engagement process designed to identify and explore farmers’ needs and priorities in order to elevate these needs and priorities to the attention of decision-makers and agriculture service providers. You can get in contact about the report at maineagneeds@gmail.com.

An important note from the cohort that developed the report:

The data contained in this report are the direct feedback of participants engaged in a statewide outreach process carried out between August 2018 and January 2019 that was designed to gather input on the needs and priorities of Maine farmers. The framework of those discussions and this report was organized in accordance with the 2013 Strategic Plan of the Agricultural Council of Maine (AGCOM). Information in the report is strictly data with minimal interpretation. The next step in this initiative is for industry representatives to review the report, to identify themes that are representative of and broadly applicable to Maine’s diverse farming community, and to prioritize action items relevant to economic sustainability. Once identified, these unifying themes can serve as the basis for further program and policy development work that benefits Maine farms and businesses.