Recent growth in the demand for locally- and regionally-produced food has opened up new market opportunities for farmers, ranchers and food businesses. Americans are interested in learning more about where their food comes from, a trend that benefits all of U.S. agriculture. Learn more about local and regional food systems, who participates in them, and their role in economic and community development in this section of the Know Your Farmer, Know Your Food Compass. Then see USDA-supported local and regional food projects across the country by visiting our interactive map.