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N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – Governor Jack Dalrymple has proclaimed Sept. 15-21 as North Dakota Farm to School Week.

“The North Dakota Farm to School Program connects schools directly with community farmers and local food hubs; and paves the way for schools to readily purchase fresh, nutrient-rich farm products,” Dalrymple said. “It positively impacts the lifelong healthy eating behaviors of North Dakota’s children and provides reliable, ongoing markets to support the state’s agricultural economy.”

Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring said there are many opportunities to educate students about good food and nutrition through farm to school programs, and that new materials are now available at www.ndfarmtoschool.org to help school administrators, teachers and parents implement Farm to School activities.

“The website has many links to resources such as recipes and lessons that can be downloaded and used for free.” he said. “The Harvest of the Month link has posters featuring vegetables, recipes and information about 15 North Dakota vegetables or fruits.”

A limited number of posters and recipe books are available to schools from Sue Balcom at sbalcom@farrms.org.

The Farm to School Program is a cooperative effort of the North Dakota Department of Agriculture, North Dakota State University Extension Service, North Dakota Department of Health and North Dakota Department of Public Instruction partnering with school districts, producers and businesses to develop and promote connections between North Dakota farms and schools.