Dive into regenerative agriculture with host Vonnie Estes as she explores the USDA's Advancing Markets for Producers (AMP) program. Guests Nikki Cossio and Kyle Cosgrove from Measure to Improve discuss the importance of implementing sustainable practices on farms, the challenges growers face, and how AMP bridges the gap between farm practices and market recognition. This episode highlights the collaborative efforts needed across the supply chain to empower growers, enhance sustainability, and foster market demand. Listen to discover how regenerative agriculture is reshaping the future of farming and produce industry.

• Proof of Concept: The AMP program aims to establish viable conservation practices that work across different farms and environments, providing growers with confidence in their sustainability investments.
• Supply Chain Education: There is a need for alignment and clarity among supply chain stakeholders concerning terms like "sustainable" and "regenerative," ensuring everyone speaks the same language.
• Risk Reduction: The program offers financial and technical support to mitigate the risks growers face when trialing new practices.
• Storytelling Importance: Effective communication of sustainability efforts is crucial in connecting farm practices to market value and consumer understanding.
• Farmer-First Approach: While centered on growers' needs, the initiative demands active participation from the entire supply chain for holistic success.

• Measure to Improve (MTI): Website
• International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA): Website
• USDA's Advancing Markets for Producers (AMP): USDA AMP Page

Embark on this informative journey as Vonnie Estes and her guests, Nikki Cossio and Kyle Cosgrove, discuss these crucial themes in agriculture today. Listen to the full episode for deeper insights and stay tuned to Fresh Takes on Tech for more engaging discussions on the future of food and agriculture.

International Fresh Produce Association - https://www.freshproduce.com/

Fresh Takes on Tech - https://www.freshproduce.com/resources/technology/takes-on-tech-podcast/

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In this episode of "Fresh Takes on Tech," host Vonnie Estes delves into the significant themes of regenerative agriculture and market opportunities for growers engaged in climate-smart practices. The episode specifically highlights the USDA's Advancing Markets for Producers (AMP) program, showcasing its attempt to forge tangible market value for sustainable farming practices. Featured guest Peter Wells from Elevated Foods shares insights into his company's role within this program, focusing on how they aggregate products from multiple growers to reach new consumer markets.

Elevated Foods is actively contributing to resolving the disconnect between sustainable agricultural practices and market incentives by developing commercial supply chains linking growers with consumers and buyers. The discussion centers on the innovative approaches that Elevated Foods is pursuing, such as nutrient density testing, and the emphasis on local and regional food systems. Wells discusses the challenges and successes encountered, particularly with data collection and market engagement, providing listeners with a detailed view of the company's strategic initiatives.

• The USDA's AMP program aims to connect climate-smart agricultural practices with real market value for growers by fostering collaborations among producers, buyers, and supply chain partners.
• Elevated Foods focuses on aggregating produce from multiple growers to enter new markets, relying on storytelling and local food systems to differentiate their products.
• Nutrient density testing is an innovative approach being utilized by Elevated Foods to highlight the quality and health benefits of sustainably grown produce.
• The challenges of data collection have been alleviated somewhat by recent changes to the program, enabling more efficient engagement with growers.
• There is significant interest from growers in adopting sustainability practices, and buyers are intrigued by the potential for differentiation through these practices in the marketplace.

• Elevated Foods
• International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA)

For those intrigued by the interplay between sustainable agriculture and market forces, this episode offers a deep dive into the solutions and opportunities being explored. Listen to the full episode to gain further insights and stay tuned for more discussions that push the boundaries of innovation in the food and agricultural sectors.

International Fresh Produce Association - https://www.freshproduce.com/

Fresh Takes on Tech - https://www.freshproduce.com/resources/technology/takes-on-tech-podcast/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFreshProduceAssociation/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/IntFreshProduce/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/international-fresh-produce-association/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/intlfreshproduceassn/

Dive into the world of regenerative agriculture with host Vonnie Estes and guest Tamara Muruetagoiena, VP of sustainability at IFPA, as they discuss the latest developments in regenerative practices. Learn about the USDA's Advancing Markets for Producers grant and its impact on the produce industry. Discover how California and Washington state growers are adopting innovative practices, reducing risks, and exploring new market opportunities. Explore the economic benefits and market potential of regenerative agriculture, while supporting sustainability and environmental efforts across the supply chain.

• The IFPA is working with the USDA on a grant to promote regenerative agriculture practices among specialty crop growers in California and Washington.
• This initiative aims to reduce the financial risk for growers trying sustainable practices, offering compensation and measuring outcomes like yield and soil health.
• Regenerative agriculture practices align closely with the increasing market demand, giving growers a competitive edge in sustainability storytelling.
• The program engages with the entire supply chain, actively involving retailers to enhance market access for regenerative agriculture products.
• The wealth of data and real-world application from this initiative will provide robust insights into future agricultural practices.

• International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA): Website

Discover how regenerative agriculture is shaping the future of the produce industry by listening to the full episode. Stay tuned for more insightful discussions on the intersection of food, technology, and sustainability on Fresh Takes on Tech.

International Fresh Produce Association - https://www.freshproduce.com/

Fresh Takes on Tech - https://www.freshproduce.com/resources/technology/takes-on-tech-podcast/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFreshProduceAssociation/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/IntFreshProduce/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/international-fresh-produce-association/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/intlfreshproduceassn/