What's Happening?
The Cooperative Agriculture Network (CAN) is organizing a 'Strategic Doing' session at Cal Poly Humboldt on April 18, 2026, aimed at supporting North Coast farmers. This event is designed to foster collaboration among farmers, advocates, and industry
leaders in the cannabis and food production sectors. The session will focus on developing actionable solutions to enhance the resilience of the Emerald Triangle's agricultural community. Key areas of focus include sustainability, market access, and local resilience. The event is supported by the Cal Poly Humboldt Cannabis Studies Lab and the Resource Legacy Fund, and it is free and open to the public. Participants will engage in co-creating practical projects that aim to deliver measurable results within a year.
Why It's Important?
This initiative is significant as it addresses the challenges faced by small-scale farmers in the North Coast region, particularly in the context of increasing corporate consolidation. By focusing on sustainability and market access, the session aims to empower local farmers to preserve their unique agricultural identity and enhance economic opportunities. The collaboration facilitated by CAN could lead to stronger partnerships and innovative solutions that benefit the entire community. This approach not only supports the local economy but also contributes to the preservation of natural resources, which is crucial for the long-term viability of the region's agriculture.
What's Next?
Following the session, participants are expected to implement the strategies developed during the event. The focus on creating projects with measurable outcomes within a year suggests that there will be follow-up activities to assess progress and adjust strategies as needed. Stakeholders, including local farmers and industry leaders, will likely continue to collaborate to ensure the success of these initiatives. The outcomes of this session could serve as a model for other regions facing similar challenges, potentially influencing broader agricultural policies and practices.
