Resources
Learn the Model. Plan the Work.
AFI's resources help visitors understand practical local-food-system problems and make better decisions. This page is the home for guides, assessments, planning tools, and research.
Start Here
Four Actions. One Stronger Food System.
The ultimate objective is not simply to build microfarms. It is to use economically successful farms as building blocks for healthier, more resilient, and economically stronger communities.
Explore the AFI Microfarm Model. Tap each tab to learn more.
Planning Tools
Better Information. Better Planning. Better Decisions.
Community Readiness Assessment
AvailableA structured assessment of growers, land, water, leadership, buyer demand, infrastructure, partners, and local capacity. A planning aid, not an automatic readiness score.
Microfarm Planning Tool
Coming SoonA future scenario tool for testing farm scale, crop mix, costs, market assumptions, and operational choices. Rebuilt with documented, locally adjustable assumptions.
MIDAS
In DevelopmentAFI's developing data layer for production planning, aggregation, orders, buyer demand, and network performance. Access and updates will be provided here as the tool matures.
Ready to explore what this could look like in your community? Connect with an AFI consultant.
Resource Library
Explore the Resources Behind Stronger Local Food Systems
Explore AFI's Six Resource Categories. Tap each category to learn more.
AFI Field Notes
AFI Field Notes
News, ideas & practical knowledge for stronger local food systems.
Welcome to AFI Field Notes, the American Farm Initiative's newsletter featuring the people, ideas, and partnerships helping to build stronger local food systems.
From practical insights for growers to emerging opportunities, community partnerships, and agricultural innovation, each issue offers a window into the work of cultivating economically successful farmers and resilient local economies.
Explore our latest issue and revisit earlier editions as our story continues to unfold.
Latest Issue
AFI FIELD NOTES
First, You Need the Farmers.
Vol. 1 | No. 1 | October/November 2026
AFI Field Notes
Vol. 1 | No. 1 | October/November 2026
First, You Need the Farmers.
In our inaugural issue, we explore a foundational idea: strong local food systems begin with farmers who can succeed economically.
Discover highlights from the September 17 Northwest Ohio Food & Farm Summit, meet two individuals helping build the system, learn what makes a microfarm more than a small garden, and explore why winter is an important season for planning a successful growing year.
Plus, find upcoming agricultural events and opportunities to connect.
Explore Past Issues
Our story is just beginning! Previous editions of AFI Field Notes will appear here as new issues are published.
Need help applying these ideas to a real community or organization?
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