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Processing options are limited to non - existent for small -scale <br />Cabarrus farmers. A facility with space for washing, cooling, <br />freezing, storing and packaging would help vegetable producers <br />diversify their product offerings and increase the efficiency <br />and potential scale of operations. As a result, producers will <br />be better able to increase their access to a variety of market <br />channels, including larger markets, such as restaurants, grocery <br />stores and institutions. <br />The new slaughter facility at the Cruse Meat plant will help fill <br />that gap for local beef farmers. An opening date for the facility <br />is still unknown. <br />1. Collaborate regionally to determine ways Cabarrus can <br />facilitate producer access to processing infrastructure. The <br />County is currently working with numerous other partners <br />to research regional data related to food production and <br />consumption that can be used to develop infrastructure. <br />Continued participation in this effort will enhance future <br />opportunities for Cabarrus farmers. As mentioned above, <br />Appalachian Sustainable Development's Appalachian Harvest <br />Network serves as a model for a regional processing facility <br />that gives farmers access to wholesale markets. <br />2. Continue communicating with beef and vegetable producers <br />to clarify processing needs. <br />1 � <br />.ti <br />26 CENTER for ENVIRONMENTAL FARMING SYSTEMS <br />1 -1 <br />Commissioners agree a <br />local food system that <br />fosters local production, <br />processing, distribution, <br />and consumption of food <br />in Cabarrus County is at <br />the heart of a sustainable <br />community. <br />a. <br />photo: Mike Linker <br />Attachment number 1 <br />Page 640 <br />