Produce Safety

The Produce Safety Risk Assessment Program

The Kalamazoo Conservation District champions the value of locally sourced food and cherishes the amazing bounty grown right here in southwest Michigan! To actively support our region's growers and promote their produce, we're collaborating with the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Michigan State University, the Produce Safety Alliance, and the Berrien Conservation District. Together, we offer guidance through a free, voluntary Produce Safety Program designed to help navigate new federal food safety standards.

This program empowers local growers by providing answers to their questions and sharing proven methods to protect both their families and consumers. We deliver technical support – including education, on-farm assistance, and connections to local, state, and federal resources – to help implement safe growing and harvesting practices. This support is available for produce farms in Allegan, Berrien, Kalamazoo, Van Buren, and other Michigan counties, aiding growers in reducing risks and working towards compliance with the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule.

Every produce grower is welcome! Whether you manage a small herb hoop house or extensive vineyards, we're here to help. Our goal is to simplify produce safety, making it straightforward and achievable for your farm.