Local Food Research Center

A strong focus on research and evaluation informs ASAP’s work. In 2011, ASAP launched the Local Food Research Center to study the economic, environmental, and social impacts of localizing food systems. In addition to an annual survey report on the state of family farms in the region, the Local Food Research Center has delved into subjects including the shift from tobacco farming to local food, the rise in sustainable production practices, food access at farmers markets, and more.

We are committed to partnering with other food system practitioners in our research and sharing our findings with the public. We have also offered consulting to foundations, public agencies, and community organizations across the country. 

Featured Reports

Data Brief: Market and Retail Pricing

ASAP’s Local Food Research Center conducted an environmental audit of 10 farmers markets and 13 nearby retail stores in Buncombe County, NC, in September and October 2025. The primary purpose of the audit was to assess food prices on seasonal food items with a secondary aim focused on product labeling (name/variety, price, growing practices).

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2025 Appalachian Grown Annual Producer Survey Report

This report presents findings from the 2025 annual survey of Appalachian Grown (AG) certified farmers in the Southern Appalachians. These farms are for the most part small, family-owned, and primarily located and selling in Western North Carolina (WNC). This annual survey gathers information about the land they farm, production costs, market opportunities, marketing strategies, and sales. The survey was completed...

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Economic & Health Benefits of Farm Fresh Produce Prescriptions

Implementation and impacts of a direct-market Food Is Medicine program that nourishes families and provides economic benefits to rural family farms.

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Hurricane Helene: Support and Uncertainty for Small Family Farms during Early Response and Recovery

In spring 2025, ASAP released a report on the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Helene on farms in Western North Carolina (WNC). This second report offers a snapshot of the early phase of recovery (the first six-to-nine months) after Hurricane Helene. To gather insights, ASAP followed the subset of small farms that received immediate needs grants to continue to gauge and...

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