The presentations in this session from American Farmland Trust’s Farmland, Food and Livable Communities Conference examine when food and agricultural markets contribute most to local economic development. This session combines the experiences of an innovative farm owner, local food coordinators in two cities with growing reputations for food culture and downtown renaissance, and academics who quantified economic impacts. Food and agriculture can inspire vibrancy and distinctiveness that enables existing businesses and attracts new ones across many industries. High-quality local farmland is the “factory floor” that delivers public amenities and economic opportunity.

Session Presenters: Leigh Maynard, Agricultural Economics Department Chair, University of Kentucky (moderator); Sarah Fritschner, Coordinator, Louisville Farm to Table; Jim Mansfield, Sheep Farmer and Lamb Marketer, Four Hills Farm, Kentucky; Ashton Potter Wright, Local Food Coordinator, Lexington Office of the Mayor, Kentucky