As the dog days of summer begin to show signs of rest, we find ourselves in that golden stretch of the season—where fields brim with abundance, farmers markets buzz with community, and the hard work of growers and producers shines through every harvest. But this season’s bounty isn’t just in the soil—it’s in the momentum building around policies that shape the future of sustainable agriculture.
Our ASAN staff of two recently attended the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition's (NSAC) summer member meeting, diving deep into the complex and ever-evolving landscape of agricultural policy.
The most concerning policy to impact our community is the OBBB Act, which cuts nearly $186 billion from SNAP benefits and redirects over $50 billion of that toward increased subsidies for the largest and wealthiest farms. This shift leaves out programs that serve the majority of farmers and rural communities, effectively sidelining those who need support most.
This is on the heels of the USDA ending the Local Food for Schools and Child Care (LFSCC) program—a $660 million initiative designed to help schools and childcare centers source fresh, local food. Its termination marks a significant setback for efforts to connect communities with healthy, regionally grown produce.
The policies being shaped today will define the landscape our farmers inherit tomorrow. At ASAN, we believe that those closest to the land—and to the communities it nourishes—must have a seat at the table. Your insight, experience, and voice are vital to this work. Whether you’re growing food, organizing neighbors, or simply passionate about justice in our food system, I hope you’ll consider joining us in this next chapter. Together, we can sow the seeds of a thriving Alabama food system.
In solidarity and stewardship,
Alan Gurganus
Executive Director
INTERESTING READS
Some Taro Varieties Suitable for the Southeast--Taro emerged as a crop that is easy to grow, has good yields, and can provide a low-input, climate-resilient alternative to other storage root crops. In addition, both the underground corms and the leaves are marketable harvests.
Policy Recommendations to the MAHA Commission--On the heels of the White House's Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Commission report, which links the corporate capture of the American diet to the chronic disease crisis, lawmakers from both sides of the aisle can come together to improve public health by transforming our food and agriculture system.
USDA Ends Regional Food Center Grants--Created in the wake of the pandemic, the idea to develop new local and regional food businesses stemmed from complications during the pandemic when national food supply chains broke down. Last month, the Trump administration moved to end 12 USDA Regional Food Business Centers meant to provide technical assistance and grants to small- and mid-sized farmers who want to develop food processing businesses or access new markets.
Who Will Control American Agriculture?--This 1973 University of Illinois publication outlines six possible futures for American agriculture. In it, "the authors emphasize that industrialization of our food and fiber system is a major force that is shifting future control away from the farm."
Grab your fellow foodies and join us on Sunday, September 28 for an evening of fresh flavors from North Alabama’s favorite farmer-chef pairings!
Graze is Alabama Sustainable Agriculture Network’s signature farm-to-fork picnic benefit showcasing the amazing food alchemy born from collaborations between farmers and chefs equally committed to quality, craft, and a rich, locally rooted food system. This is your chance to meet the local chefs and farmers behind your favorite restaurants, caterers and farms across North Alabama. Walk the grounds, hear their stories, and taste what’s possible when homegrown ingredients meet culinary creativity. Stay tuned for pairing announcements to come!
Your ticket includes tastings of sample-sized dishes from over 20 chef and farmer pairings, live music, and fun activities for the kids.
Even better? Every bite helps fuel ASAN’s mission, with proceeds supporting year-round programming like farmer workshops, participant stipends, and the ongoing work of strengthening Alabama’s food future.
ASAN allocates a portion of its annual budget to directly help ASAN farmer members "untie" a problem that's limiting their farm's operations or profitability. The hope is that these mini-grants can provide a leg-up in hard times
This fund provides grants to ASAN Members who could benefit from monetary support for the following categories:
an expense holding back production
help with transition to sustainable growing practices
ASAN is a partner in the USDA Southeast Transition to Organic Partnership Program (SE TOPP). Part of this program is a Farmer-to-Farmer Mentorship Program designed to build connections between producers transitioning to organic, provide support for the transition process, and create a stronger network of organic producers. Both mentors and mentees will have the opportunity to receive stipends as part of the program. Visit the Transition to Organic Partnership Program website below or email [email protected] for more information.
Summertime is well known to be the busiest time of year for farmers. We know that for many of you, all help is appreciated. So this year, ASAN is launching our inaugural Summer Harvest Volunteer Program. The goal is to connect farms with volunteers to help support you through the season while strengthening relationships between your farm and the community. Volunteers are not limited only to harvesting, ASAN will also help you find volunteers willing and able to assist complete other tasks. This program is open to all farms within our network. If you're interested, please fill out the form below!
Roots in the Groundis a picnic fundraiser providing grants to new and emerging community gardeners who have completed Jones Valley Teaching Farm's Good Community Food Fellowship. Since 2022, it has helped build and expand 9 community gardens across Alabama! On Saturday, September 6th from 4pm-7pm at the Center for Food Education, guests will enjoy a picnic buffet featuring 10 local chefs, learn to line dance, bid on silent auction items, and learn more about community gardens in their neighborhood.
Alabama Regenerative Growers Conference hosted in partnership with Alabama Cooperative Extension System, ASAN, and Jones Valley Teaching Farm, focuses on agroecological methods of fruit and vegetable production, with session tracks for both commercial farmers and home & community gardeners. The conference features educational sessions, farm tours, vendors, lunch, and networking: a convergence of commercial and community growers interested in soil health, biodiversity, agroecology, and related topics. November 8th from 8:30am-4:30pm at Jones Valley Teaching Farm.
Save the Date: 2025 Southern Region Small Farms Conference will take place in Mobile, AL on December 3-5. More details to come.
Submit your event to the ASAN Events Calendar! Do you have an event you would like to advertise in this monthly newsletter? If so, please email the following to [email protected]: name of event, host group and contact info, location (including full address), date/time, price, link to event website / Facebook event page. We cannot transcribe a flyer but can share a link to one you've already published online.
WELCOME NEW BOARD MEMBER, JON JACOBSON!
The ASAN Board of Directors is responsible for ensuring that ASAN's resources are used in the best possible manner by overseeing the annual budget, executive director, and organizational visioning and planning processes.
Please join us in welcoming Jon to the ASAN team! We'll be introducing additional new Board Members in future newsletters.
Born in Fairhope, Alabama, Jon has spent a lifetime immersed in the culture and communities of his home state. A 2008 graduate of Auburn University, he has built a dynamic career spanning agriculture, culinary arts, and local food advocacy.
Based in Birmingham for the past 15 years, Jon has worked as a chef at MetroPrime Steakhouse, Little Savannah, and Chez Lulu / Continental Bakery, cultivating a deep appreciation for locally sourced ingredients and Southern food traditions. His commitment to food equity led him to serve on the board of REV Birmingham, where he helped guide the Urban Food Project—an initiative focused on bringing fresh, local foods to underserved neighborhoods.
Entrepreneurial at heart, Jon launched The Noble Dog, a mobile food business that partnered with Marble Creek Farmstead for sustainably raised proteins. He also worked as the farm’s in-house butcher, further deepening his connection to Alabama’s agricultural community.
Following the pandemic, Jon joined the Alabama Cooperative Extension System as a regional agent, where he taught entrepreneurship and coached food and beverage businesses, with a focus on underrepresented communities. Most recently, he served as Food & Beverage Director for the World Police & Fire Games, hosted in Birmingham.
Through every role, Jon has remained dedicated to uplifting local farmers, food systems, and small businesses—values that continue to shape his work and vision.
CLASSIFIEDS & RESOURCES
LEARNING OPPORTUNITY: FARMpreneurs Strategic Sprint is a free, week-long boot camp that helps farmers craft 3–5 year strategic plans while developing entrepreneurial and leadership skills. Apply by August 31.
URBAN FARMER GRANT: The City of Birmingham, in collaboration with Jones Valley Teaching Farm, is launching the Urban Farmer Grant Program to strengthen food access, build community resilience, and support local urban growers within the City of Birmingham. The program will award 10 grants of $10,000 each. Apply by September 14.
DAIRY BUSINESS PLANNING GRANT: The Southeast Dairy Business Innovation Initiative (SDBII), with support from USDA AMS, offers grants to dairy businesses throughout the southeast and Puerto Rico. The program provides reimbursement funds to permitted dairy businesses that are seeking the help of experts to plan for the future. Apply by September 24.
DAIRY SPECIALTY PROCESSING EQUIPMENT GRANT: The Southeast Dairy Business Innovation Initiative (SDBII), with support from USDA AMS, offers grants to dairy businesses throughout the southeast and Puerto Rico. The program provides reimbursement funds to permitted dairy businesses to help improve efficiency and capacity. Apply by September 24.
COMMUNITY FACILITIES DIRECT LOAN & GRANT:This program provides affordable funding to develop essential community facilities in rural areas. Local food systems such as community gardens, food pantries, community kitchens, food banks, food hubs or greenhouses qualify for this funding. Applications are open year round.
HUNTSVILLE FOOD & FARM HUB: Year-round virtual marketplace connects you directly with local farmers and producers through simple online ordering and convenient Tuesday drive through or walk-in pickup in downtown Huntsville (with free parking!), as well as home delivery.
ICE PREPAREDNESS POSTERS FOR FARMS: This page includes information on preparing for a potential visit from Immigration & Customs Enforcement (I.C.E), as well as best practices for supporting immigrant employees.
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS KIT: RAFI has put together a simple checklist of actions to take before disaster strikes so that you are prepared to apply for FSA programs that may assist in recovery.
WHOLESALE MEAT GUIDE:a resource fromNiche Meat Processor Assistance Network (NMPAN) for farmers, ranchers, cooperatives, meat processors, and anyone developing a branded meat company.
FREE TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: Prosperity Partners by American Farmland Trust (the "No Farms, No Food" folks) provides free technical assistance connecting farmers with expert advisors. Services include conservation planning, soil health improvement, and agricultural project support to strengthen farm businesses.
TAX EXEMPTION OPPORTUNITY: Fencing materials, such as t-posts, wood posts, barbed wire, net wire, smooth wire, standard metal gates, and other like materials used for the purpose of fencing in agriculture livestock applications are exempt from state sales and use taxes through September 30, 2029. To benefit, the purchaser must provide the retailer with Form ST:EXC-2. For more information, email [email protected].
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