Progress report for ONE24-452
Project Information
Westchester Mushroom Company, in
collaboration with local grocers and businesses, seeks to provide
higher quality, sustainable mushrooms to Westchester County
shoppers. By employing display fridges for better mushroom
storage in local grocery stores and businesses, this project aims
to prolong the freshness and quality of locally grown mushrooms,
thereby meeting consumer demand for high-quality produce while
reducing food waste and creating more efficient production and
storage methods.
This project aims to address the
challenges of sustainable mushroom distribution in Westchester
County, New York, by enhancing economic viability, promoting
sustainable agricultural practices, improving consumer access to
fresh produce, and building collaborative partnerships.
Enhancing Economic Viability:
-
Minimize post-harvest losses
and increase market access for local mushroom farmers in
Westchester County. -
Reduce waste from operations by
investing in long-lasting equipment that needs less frequent
replacement. -
Objective: Quantify the
reduction in post-harvest losses achieved through the
implementation of display fridges for mushroom storage in
collaboration with local grocers and businesses. -
Anticipated Result: Increased
sales and profitability for local mushroom farmers by reducing
product spoilage and extending the shelf life of
mushrooms.
Promoting Sustainable Agriculture:
-
Foster sustainable agricultural
practices that benefit both farmers and consumers by reducing
food waste and enhancing the availability of locally grown
produce. -
Objective: Assess the
environmental impact of implementing display fridges for
mushroom storage, including the reduction of greenhouse gas
emissions associated with food waste. -
Anticipated Result: Reduced
environmental footprint and enhanced sustainability of mushroom
production and distribution practices in Westchester
County.
Improving Consumer Access to Fresh Produce:
-
By promoting the consumption of
locally grown mushrooms, the project aims to improve consumer
access to fresh and nutritious produce. -
Objective: Measure the increase
in consumer satisfaction and demand for locally grown mushrooms
facilitated by the availability of high-quality, fresh produce
in local grocery stores and businesses. -
Anticipated Result: Improved
consumer health outcomes and economic support for local farmers
through increased sales and demand for fresh mushrooms.
Incorporation of Production Enhancements:
-
Implementing a mushroom
autoclave and laminar hood for spawn sterilization, upgrading
to stainless steel tables and shelves, investing in
professional-grade grow tents, and introducing display fridges
for marketing and sales purposes. -
Objective: Enhance production
efficiency, hygiene, and marketing effectiveness at WMC. -
Anticipated Result: Improved
operational efficiency, safety, and sales outcomes.
Building Collaborative Partnerships:
-
Collaboration with key
stakeholders, including local grocers, businesses, and
community organizations, is essential for the success of the
project. -
Objective: Evaluate the
effectiveness of collaborative partnerships in implementing
sustainable mushroom distribution practices and promoting
community engagement. -
Anticipated Result:
Strengthened relationships between local farmers, businesses,
and community organizations, leading to long-term support for
sustainable agriculture initiatives in Westchester
County.
By achieving these objectives,
the project aims to contribute valuable insights and practical
solutions to the challenges of sustainable mushroom distribution
in Westchester County, ultimately benefiting local farmers,
consumers, and the environment.
Problem Statement:
Westchester County, New York, grapples with the challenge of establishing sustainable practices for mushroom distribution. Local farmers, including those from the Westchester Mushroom Company, face difficulties in preserving the quality and freshness of their mushrooms during storage and distribution. This issue is critical as it affects the livelihoods of farmers and the accessibility of locally grown, nutritious produce for consumers. Additionally, inefficient distribution methods contribute to increased food waste, posing significant environmental and economic concerns.
Importance of the Issue:
Ensuring sustainable mushroom distribution is imperative for several reasons. Firstly, it directly impacts the economic viability of local farmers, as post-harvest losses diminish farm income. Secondly, consumers benefit from access to fresh, locally grown produce, promoting healthier eating habits and supporting the local economy. Moreover, reducing food waste aligns with broader environmental goals, minimizing greenhouse gas emissions and conserving natural resources.
Proposed Solution:
Our project proposes a solution focused on implementing display fridges for mushroom storage in collaboration with local grocers and businesses. These fridges offer temperature-controlled environments that prolong mushroom freshness, thus reducing waste and increasing sales. This initiative aligns with Northeast SARE's Outcome Statement by promoting sustainable agricultural practices that enhance environmental stewardship, economic viability, and community well-being.
Purpose of the Project:
The primary objectives of our project are twofold:
- Improving Economic Viability: By minimizing post-harvest losses and enhancing market access, we aim to increase the economic sustainability of local mushroom farmers.
- Promoting Sustainable Agriculture: Through the reduction of food waste and the increased availability of locally grown produce, we seek to foster sustainable agricultural practices that benefit both farmers and consumers.
Expected Impact:
Our proposed solution is expected to have a positive impact on sustainable agriculture, specifically in the following aspects:
- Reduction of Environmental and Health Risks: Implementing display fridges will minimize food waste, reducing greenhouse gas emissions from decomposition and mitigating health risks associated with spoiled produce. Furthermore, by promoting the consumption of locally grown produce, the project contributes to the conservation of water usage, and the reduction of fuel consumption through local deliveries.
- Improvement of Productivity and Net Farm Income: By preserving mushroom quality and freshness, farmers can expect increased sales and reduced post-harvest losses, ultimately leading to improved productivity and higher net farm income.
- Conservation of Natural Resources: Minimizing food waste conserves natural resources, such as water and energy, while also reducing the environmental footprint associated with mushroom production and distribution.
Industry Need and Potential Results:
The need for this project is evident in the challenges faced by local mushroom farmers, including difficulty in maintaining product quality and high levels of post-harvest losses. Potential results from our project could be utilized by farmers to enhance their storage and distribution practices, ultimately leading to increased profitability and market access. Additionally, Fred's Food Pantry will receive all mushrooms that cannot be sold through the display fridges, further reducing waste and food insecurity.
Quantifiable Impacts:
The economic, social, and environmental impacts of the problem and our proposed solution are significant. By reducing food waste and improving distribution practices, we anticipate increased farm income, improved consumer access to fresh produce, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and enhanced environmental sustainability.
In conclusion, our project offers a holistic solution to the challenges of mushroom distribution in Westchester County. By collaborating with local stakeholders and implementing display fridges, we aim to enhance economic viability, promote sustainable agriculture, and contribute to positive outcomes for farmers, consumers, and the environment.
Cooperators
Research
Objective 1: Enhancing Economic Viability
Experimental Design:
- We will conduct a field experiment in collaboration with local mushroom farmers to assess the impact of implementing display fridges for mushroom storage on post-harvest losses and market access.
Treatments:
- Treatment Group: Installation of display fridges for mushroom storage in collaboration with local grocers and businesses.
- Control Group: Conventional storage methods without display fridges.
Data Collection:
- Post-harvest losses will be quantified by comparing the quantity of mushrooms harvested with the quantity sold or discarded due to spoilage.
- Market access will be evaluated by tracking the number of sales and distribution channels accessed by farmers before and after the implementation of display fridges.
Measurement Protocols:
- Post-harvest losses will be measured weekly by weighing the quantity of mushrooms harvested and comparing it with the quantity sold or discarded.
- Market access will be assessed by collecting sales data from participating businesses and recording the number of distribution channels utilized.
Methods of Analysis:
- Statistical analysis will be performed to compare post-harvest losses and market access between the treatment and control groups.
- Sample size: Westchester Mushroom Company will be the primary farmer participating in the study, contributing data over a period of six months.
Objective 2: Promoting Sustainable Agriculture
Experimental Design:
- We will conduct a comparative analysis of the environmental impact of implementing display fridges for mushroom storage versus conventional storage methods.
Treatments:
- Treatment Group: Installation of display fridges for mushroom storage.
- Control Group: Conventional storage methods without display fridges.
Data Collection:
- Environmental impact will be assessed by measuring greenhouse gas emissions associated with food waste and transportation.
- Additional data on water and energy usage will be collected to evaluate resource conservation.
Measurement Protocols:
- Greenhouse gas emissions will be measured using portable gas analyzers at the farm level and during transportation.
- Water and energy usage will be monitored using utility meters installed at participating farms and distribution centers.
Methods of Analysis:
- Data analysis will include both descriptive statistics and inferential analysis to compare the environmental impact of the treatment and control groups.
- Statistical analyses will be employed to assess differences in greenhouse gas emissions, water usage, and energy consumption.
- Sample size: We will collect data from at least 1 participating farm and up to 10 distribution centers to ensure statistical validity.
Objective 3: Improving Consumer Access to Fresh Produce
Experimental Design:
- We will conduct consumer surveys to assess the impact of locally grown mushrooms stored in display fridges on consumer satisfaction and demand.
Target Population:
- Local residents and shoppers in Westchester County.
Research Design:
- Cross-sectional survey.
Methods and Instruments:
- Structured questionnaires will be administered to shoppers before and after the implementation of display fridges in participating grocery stores.
- Questions will assess consumer perceptions of mushroom quality, freshness, and willingness to purchase.
Data Collection:
- Surveys will be conducted at multiple time points to capture changes in consumer behavior over time.
- Data will be collected anonymously to ensure confidentiality and encourage honest responses.
Measurement Protocols:
- Surveys will be administered in-person by store personnel at participating grocery stores.
- Data will be collected using electronic devices or paper-based questionnaires, depending on participant preferences.
Methods of Analysis:
- Descriptive statistics will be used to summarize survey responses and identify trends in consumer behavior.
- Statistical tests may be employed to examine relationships between variables.
- Sample size: We aim to survey at least 200 shoppers before and after the implementation of display fridges to ensure a representative sample.
Objective 4: Building Collaborative Partnerships
Planned Activities:
- Stakeholder meetings: Regular meetings will be held with local farmers, grocers, businesses, and community organizations to discuss project progress and solicit feedback.
- Educational workshops: Workshops will be organized to provide training on sustainable mushroom cultivation practices and the benefits of locally grown produce.
- Community outreach events: Events such as farmers' markets, cooking demonstrations, and farm tours will be organized to engage the community and promote sustainable agriculture.
Engagement Strategies:
- Open communication: Regular communication channels, including email updates and newsletters, will be established to keep stakeholders informed about project activities and outcomes.
- Collaboration opportunities: Opportunities for collaboration and resource-sharing will be explored to maximize the impact of the project and foster long-term partnerships.
Assessment:
- Feedback surveys: Surveys will be distributed to stakeholders to gather feedback on the effectiveness of project activities and identify areas for improvement.
- Participation tracking: Attendance and participation in project activities will be documented to assess engagement levels and identify potential barriers to participation.
By implementing these methods and measurements, we aim to achieve our project objectives and generate tangible, measurable results that contribute to the sustainability of mushroom cultivation practices in Westchester County.
Research Progress
Consumer Survey
- Surveys are actively collecting data on consumer satisfaction and perceptions of mushroom quality under conventional storage.
- Participation is expected to increase with planned engagement activities.
Post-Harvest Loss Tracking
- Tracking of spoilage rates will begin upon fridge installation, contributing to the evaluation of sustainability outcomes.
Environmental Impact
- Preliminary insights suggest reducing spoilage will lower greenhouse gas emissions. Quantitative metrics will follow in later phases.
Benefits and Impacts
Short-Term Impacts
- Increased consumer awareness of the benefits of locally grown produce.
- Improved data collection systems to inform future project phases.
Long-Term Goals
- Reduction in food waste through enhanced storage practices.
- Greater profitability and market access for local mushroom farmers.
Education & Outreach Activities and Participation Summary
Webpage
Highlights project objectives, progress, and benefits of sustainable mushroom production.
Target Audience/Reach: Consumers, community members, and stakeholders.
Fliers
Informational materials distributed at farmers’ markets to raise awareness of the project.
Reach: Approximately 100–200 individuals during the summer outreach campaign.
Participation Summary:
Target Audience:
- Grocers and businesses participating in the project
- Community organizations promoting sustainable agriculture
- Historically underserved communities in Westchester County
Outreach Activities:
Workshops and Training Sessions:
- We will organize workshops and training sessions targeted at local farmers to share the results of our project and provide practical guidance on implementing display fridges for mushroom storage.
- These sessions will include hands-on demonstrations, case studies, and discussions on best practices for sustainable mushroom cultivation and distribution.
- Expected Reach: At least 50 local farmers and farm workers.
Webinars and Online Resources:
- We will develop webinars and online resources, including videos, fact sheets, and guides, to disseminate project findings and recommendations to a wider audience.
- These resources will be accessible through our project website and shared via email newsletters and social media channels.
- Expected Reach: Over 200 stakeholders, including farmers, grocers, and community members.
Community Events and Farmers' Markets:
- We will participate in local community events and farmers' markets to engage with the broader community and raise awareness about sustainable mushroom cultivation practices.
- Display booths will showcase project outcomes, distribute educational materials, and offer opportunities for one-on-one interactions with project team members.
- Expected Reach: Over 500 attendees across multiple events.
Collaborative Partnerships:
- We will leverage existing partnerships with community organizations, such as Hilltop Hanover Farm and Fred's Food Pantry, to extend the reach of our outreach efforts.
- Collaborative events, joint workshops, and shared resources will enhance visibility and accessibility of project outcomes within historically underserved communities.
- Expected Reach: Over 100 community members from underserved areas.
Evaluation and Follow-Up:
- Surveys and feedback forms will be distributed to participants following outreach activities to assess the effectiveness of communication strategies and gather suggestions for improvement.
- Engagement metrics, including website traffic, social media interactions, and event attendance, will be tracked to evaluate the reach and impact of our outreach efforts.
- Follow-up communication will be maintained with stakeholders to provide ongoing support, address inquiries, and facilitate further dissemination of project results.
By implementing these targeted outreach activities, we aim to ensure that the results of our project are effectively communicated to farmers, businesses, and community members in Westchester County. Through collaborative partnerships and tailored communication strategies, we will maximize the reach and impact of our project outcomes, ultimately contributing to the adoption of sustainable mushroom cultivation practices and benefiting historically underserved communities.
Learning Outcomes
Westchester Mushroom Company has identified several key learnings:
1. Importance of Flexibility and Adaptation:
• The project faced delays in installing display fridges due to challenges with securing a line of credit and holiday-related store space limitations. To adapt, the team initiated consumer surveys and baseline data collection to keep progress on track. This demonstrated the importance of remaining flexible and leveraging alternative strategies to address unforeseen obstacles.
2. Value of Consumer Feedback:
• The implementation of QR code surveys on mushroom packaging has highlighted the critical role of consumer feedback in shaping project outcomes. By collecting insights on mushroom quality and satisfaction under conventional storage conditions, the company is better equipped to evaluate the eventual impact of display fridges.
3. Outreach Drives Awareness:
•Informational efforts at farmers’ markets and the use of fliers effectively raised awareness among 100–200 individuals about sustainable mushroom practices. This underscores the value of face-to-face engagement in fostering community participation and building support for sustainability initiatives.
4. Collaborative Partnerships Are Key:
•Strong relationships with stakeholders, including DeCicco’s, Hemlock Hill, and local farmers’ markets, have proven essential for navigating challenges and maintaining project momentum. Collaboration has facilitated dialogue, shared learning, and alignment toward common goals.
5. Challenges Can Foster Innovation:
•Financial constraints forced the team to explore alternative funding options, such as utilizing a credit card for fridge purchases. This experience highlighted the need for creative problem-solving and resourcefulness when faced with limited funding.
6. Consumer-Centric Engagement Increases Participation:
•Planned engagement activities like social media campaigns and giveaways are expected to enhance survey participation and community involvement. This insight reinforces the importance of interactive and incentive-driven strategies to maintain consumer interest and engagement.
7. Sustainability Requires Long-Term Commitment:
•Preliminary findings suggest that reducing spoilage will contribute to environmental benefits such as lowering greenhouse gas emissions. However, meaningful sustainability impacts will require ongoing monitoring, data collection, and refinement of practices over time.