Globalization and family farm survival in Southern Appalachia

Abstract

Southern Appalachian family farming communities continue to support cultural heritage and traditional foodways fueled by expanding tourist markets and middle class demand for fresh local foods. Small farming is integral to rural development - promoting economic and environmentally sustainable practices along with being essential to heritage and land preservation. More than any other aspect of culture, food defines mountain communities which continue to identify with the agricultural landscape and a sense of “food place”. Globalization creates both challenges and opportunities for farm communities requiring we redefine our understanding of the role of local food in development strategies. Lastly scaling up local foods requires a new development narrative challenging the existing food system and sharing power with small-scale agriculture.