ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the mounting consumer interest in local food systems. The growth of women, socially disadvantaged groups, and veterans as new entrants into agri-food markets is a dynamic component of the entrepreneurial resurgence in small-scale agriculture. All parts of the US economy, including the food and agricultural sectors, now reflect the reality of increased diversity. Important and exciting socio-economic transformations are taking place within US agriculture. Reflecting the demographic changes occurring within the entire US population, the age, ethnic, and attitudinal characteristics of the agri-food system are trending in new directions. For anyone with an interest in the future of the agricultural and food sector in our economy, the new market patterns are significant, exciting, and worthy of study. Federal farm programs are envisioned as equally accessible to decision makers within markets of any geographic dimension: local, regional, national, or international. Organic production and marketing have grown rapidly in economic importance.
