Building a Values-Based Food Distribution System : Challenges and Opportunities for Small Producers in Boulder County, Colorado

This study identifies key opportunities and challenges facing small-scale producers in regional food distribution, using a combination of qualitative research methods, including semi-structured interviews with local farmers and chefs and comparative analysis of global models. Five primary distribution channels were identified as the most relevant to small producers: Direct-to-Consumer (DTC), Retail, institutional, Wholesale, and Alternative markets. Each channel presents advantages and tradeoffs in terms of infrastructure, profitability, and alignment with sustainability values. While Boulder County, CO already provides strong policy and community support, producers continue to face systemic barriers, including limited access to cold storage, inefficient delivery systems, and inconsistent market coordination. The report concludes that small-scale farmers can reduce economic risk and enhance resilience by combining multiple distribution channels. Recommendations include expanded food hub infrastructure, increased support for beginning farmers with business development tools, and incentivizing consumer procurement of local foods.