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way to adopt local sourcing practices that are often more expensive and less convenient. Many options are available here, including widespread promotion of the "Locally Grown" label and a continued partnership with the Center For environmental Farming Systems' (CEFS) 10% Campaign. 7. Bolster "Cruse Slaughter Floor" investment with intensive development of meat suppliers and market outlets — The County has made significant in -roads toward the development of the Cruse Slaughter Floor. Many factors will determine the success of this project. Typically, significant "through put" is required to make these types of food system infrastructure improvements financially viable. For the facility to succeed, it will be necessary to develop a reliable source of animals to move through the facility plus strong markets and demand. Both of these elements are not yet evident in Cabarrus' beef producer or consumer community. Given individual farmer's lack of interest in wholesale markets, it would be prudent to pursue this project in tandem with the development of one or more producer collaborations and /or food entrepreneurs who can develop a wholesale aggregation program that focuses on volume. It would also be strategic to focus County resources directly on local beef promotion. 8. Investigate and encourage participation in regional marketing initiatives — The County is in a strong position to play a leadership role in developing regional approaches to building local food businesses and initiatives focused on scaling. A first priority should be continued investigation of regional and national models for scaling local food and farming businesses, including consumer cooperatives. A number of initiatives are underway in the Charlotte/ Mecklenburg area that offer opportunities for collaboration. Attachment nun4ber 1 Cabarrus County Food System Assessment 1 -1 Page 621