Food Network Strengthens Regional Agricultural Economy in Questa

In the region surrounding Questa, farmers, ranchers, and food producers have the capacity to supply local restaurants, grocers, and buyers. However, most food spending continues to leave the area, limiting the viability of small agricultural businesses and increasing reliance on distant supply chains. After engaging directly with local food businesses and producers and identifying persistent barriers to connection, a coordinator developed the Terra Food Resilience Network within Localogy and sought support from LOR. LOR’s funding will help launch the network by supporting website design and development, branding and marketing materials, two refurbished laptops and monitors for coordination and outreach, and 10–12 community listening and stakeholder engagement sessions. This includes venue rentals, refreshments, printed materials, translation services, and documentation support. Additional funding will support travel and field coordination to build relationships with farms, ranches, grocers, and restaurants across Questa and the surrounding communities. The network will recruit 8–12 regional buyers, facilitate producer-to-buyer purchasing agreements, and incorporate resident input to ensure the system reflects local needs. With commitments already in place from a grocery store, a farm, and a mill, the Terra Food Resilience Network will strengthen local agricultural businesses, keep more food dollars circulating in the regional economy, and lay a foundation for long-term food resilience across northern New Mexico.