Gallatin Valley Farm to School

According to the Center for Science in the Public Interest, “Obesity and poor nutrition are major contributors to heart disease, cancer, stroke, and diabetes, which are responsible for two-thirds of deaths in the United States. Major risk factors for those diseases often are established in childhood: unhealthy eating habits, physical inactivity, poor health literacy, and obesity.” (cspinet.org/kids_diet_health 2009.pdf) Further, a study conducted by the National Alliance for Nutrition and Activity states that “Childhood obesity is skyrocketing. Over the last two decades, rates of obesity have tripled in children and adolescents aged 6 to 19 years. Children generally do not outgrow obesity: obese 10-14 year olds are 28 times more likely than non-obese children to be obese in young adulthood.” The report “Preventing Childhood Obesity: Health in the Balance” addresses significant consequences to childhood obesity, including Type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. Lesser known are the emotional health consequences for young people, such as low self-esteem, negative body image, and depression. (Institute of Medicine. Preventing Childhood Obesity: Health in the Balance. Washington, DC: National Academies Press; 2005.) Not only does poor nutrition impact physical and psychological health, but as noted by the National Association of State Boards of Education, there also exists a link between proper nutrition and academic performance: “Health and success in school are interrelated. Schools cannot achieve their primary mission of education if students and staff are not healthy and fit physically, mentally, and socially” (Wechsler, H. et al. The State Education Standard. “The Role of Schools in Preventing Childhood Obesity.” 2004.) Further, as an agricultural community and state, it is imperative that we uphold that heritage and ensure that our land can continue to produce healthy food for future generations. While growth in Bozeman has been rapid in the past years, many rural areas across the state are experiencing an exodus. Without viable economic opportunities, it is no wonder that our small towns are being abandoned.