Cooperatives/Consumers: The success of a plentiful, safe and alternate food, fiber and energy system whichmore closely links producers to consumers depends on consumer interest and involvement. New England is fortunate to have many food cooperatives, community supported agriculture farms, community supported fisheries, woodland and farm cooperatives that make it easier for farmers, forest owners and fishermen to sell directly to consumers. New England Farmers Union is undertaking efforts to identify those entities and understand how the one hundred year long expertise of Farmers Union can support cooperative development in New England.

Cooperatives/Farmers, Fishermen and Forest Owners: Family farmers and producers seek and require access to additional markets in our regional food and fiber system. Demand is high for regionally produced products. One effective business model for increasing market share is a cooperative. Farmers Union started over 100 years ago because farmers realized they needed to cooperate in order to get a fair price for their products. Thus the name, "union." New England Farmers Union is exploring effective methods and new technologies for innovative networking, distribution and direct marketing systems, working in partnerships with farmers, fishermen, numerous associations, non-profit organizations and consumers.

RESOURCES
Agricultural Marketing
Appropriate Technology
Community Supported Agriculture
Co-op Business Development
Co-op Grant Programs
Credit Unions
Educational Cooperative Website for Youth
Electric Cooperatives
Farm Fuels
Farmers Markets Promotion Program
National Co-op Month
Northeast Cooperative Council (607) 255-8800
Rural Development
Sheep and Goats Industries Improvement
Special USDA Rural Economic Grants and Programs
Sustainable Agriculture
Woods & Biomass Marketing Assistance
WoodWorks