Cornell’s Regional Fresh Produce Supply Chain Model Aids in Drought Resilience

Cornell University developed a new supply chain model for East Coast broccoli to reduce dependence on produce from the drought-prone West. The model involves seasonal production moving through the ten broccoli-producing states on the East Coast, beginning in winter in Florida and Georgia and moving northward to Maine as the weather warms. It also involved developing locally adapted and commercially viable varieties of broccoli. Researchers involved in the project say the East Coast broccoli supply chain could provide a model for other types of regional fresh produce production. Having a functional supply chain on the East Coast not only helps mitigate drought risk but also slightly lowers supply chain costs and reduces transport distances.