HONESDALE – Area residents, farmers and entrepreneurs can share their thoughts on how a key Wayne Tomorrow! project takes shape.
An online survey asks for insight into what functions, services and programs should be included in a proposed Agriculture Innovation Center.
In July, The Wayne County Commissioners hired Agricultural & Community Development Services (ACDS, LLC) to conduct a feasibility study and develop a business plan for the center, which was born out of the Wayne County Economic Plan for Agriculture and the county’s need for a new home for the Food Pantry Program.
Wayne Memorial Hospital likely will also use the facility to help in the implementation of their new Food Prescription program for chronic disease management.
Prepared by ACDS, the survey helps to inform the feasibility study and set the scope for the project, which will not only serve as a local processing plant for various agricultural goods, but also as a place for education in ag, research and development, and a place for residents to buy local products.
The project grew out of the Economic Plan for Agriculture, also prepared by ACDS in 2018-19, that analyzed the current status and the potential growth of Wayne County’s Agricultural Sector as a means of encouraging sustainable economic development in the region.
The Agricultural Innovation Center is being designed to support farmers and entrepreneurs and strengthen the local food system.
Please share your thoughts by taking the five- to 10-minute survey before Sept. 24.