(NDDA) – The North Dakota Department of Agriculture (NDDA) received a $100,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to improve access to local foods in schools by developing a stronger and more sustainable Farm to School program in the state.

“The enhanced Farm to School program will increase the amount of locally produced foods served through child nutrition programs,” Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring said. “Serving North Dakota food products grown by our farmers and ranchers and processed by local businesses will also help children learn how their food is raised and produced.”

As part of the grant, NDDA will conduct comprehensive Farm to School programming, including local procurement and agricultural education efforts.