Richard Berkfield, Executive Director at Food Connects, Appointed to Governor Phil Scott's Future of Agriculture Commission

[BRATTLEBORO, VT, March 2023—] Food Connects is pleased to announce that Richard Berkfield, its Executive Director, has been appointed to Governor Phil Scott's Future of Agriculture Commission. The commission was formed to appreciate and address the critical importance of Vermont farms and local food.

Berkfield, one of the founders of Food Connects, has long been a passionate advocate for local food systems and sustainable agriculture. His extensive experience in the field and dedication to promoting healthy and equitable food access make him a valuable addition to the commission.

"I am honored to be appointed to Governor Phil Scott's Future of Agriculture Commission," said Berkfield. "Vermont's farms and local food are a vital part of our state's identity, and I look forward to working with the commission to ensure their continued success."

The Future of Agriculture Commission is comprised of agriculture, business, and conservation leaders from across Vermont. The commission will work together to develop strategies for strengthening Vermont's agricultural economy, supporting farm viability, and ensuring access to local, healthy food for all Vermonters.

"We are thrilled that Richard has been appointed to the Future of Agriculture Commission," said Paul Renouf, Food Connects Board Chair. "His expertise and commitment to local food systems will be a tremendous asset to the commission's work."

Berkfield's appointment to the commission highlights the important role that organizations like Food Connects play in ensuring that Vermont remains a vibrant agricultural state. 

Food Connects is an entrepreneurial non-profit that delivers locally produced food as well as educational and consulting services aimed at transforming local food systems. The Food Hub aggregates and delivers from over 125 regional farms and food producers to over 280 buyers in southeast Vermont, southwest New Hampshire, and western Massachusetts. Their educational services focus on Farm to School programming. Acknowledged as a statewide leader, the program supports over 30 schools to increase local food purchasing, school meal participation, and food, farm, and nutrition education. Together these core programs contribute to a vibrant local economy by increasing local food purchases by schools and improving students’ nutrition and academic performance. Food Connects is frequently hired to provide leadership and consulting services for efforts to support food systems initiatives throughout New England and act as a catalyst for change.