For most kids, summer means fun in the sun and a break from school but it can also mean a decreased amount of learning and one less meal for some students. ISDA’s Idaho Preferred program partnered with schools, youth centers, and picnic in the park programs around the gem state to lessen the gap and ensure everyone

has a healthy meal and learns the importance of Idaho agriculture.

Farm to Summer is a youth-focused food program that works with food service staff to provide a free Idaho focused meal full of local food, a lesson about Idaho agriculture, and often a bag filled with promotional items from sponsors like Dairy West and North West Farm Credit Services. Students are also given local farm-fresh produce at each location thanks to sponsors including the Ada County Farm Bureau.

This summer season has been the best yet for the 3-year-old program.  In addition to events in the Treasure Valley, locations were added in Twin Falls, Moscow, and Coeur d’Alene for a total of 10 Farm to Summer events throughout the state.  Featured products this year included donut peaches from Garrett Ranches, corn from Blue Barn Produce, cherries and apricots from Symms Fruit Ranch, and peaches and carrots from Stoops Produce.

Farm to Summer Video