Appalachian Sustainable Development

Appalachian Sustainable Development (ASD) is a nonprofit organization based in the Appalachian region, focused on building sustainable local food systems and supporting agricultural development in Southwest Virginia and the broader Appalachian area. The organization operates a range of programs designed to connect farmers, producers, and communities with resources, markets, and training to strengthen regional food economies.

ASD operates the Appalachian Harvest Food Hub, a regional aggregation and distribution network that helps small and mid-sized farmers access wholesale markets for locally grown produce. Complementing this, the Appalachian Harvest Food Boxes program delivers fresh, locally sourced produce directly to consumers. The Appalachian Harvest Herb Hub™ focuses specifically on the aggregation and marketing of herbs and specialty crops grown in the region.

The organization's agroforestry program is a significant component of its work, providing technical assistance, training, and resources to farmers interested in integrating trees with crops and livestock. ASD offers an 'Ask an Agroforester' service, agroforestry farm tours, and professional training sessions. It also maintains resources on apiculture, ecosystem services, wildcrafting, and organic farming practices.

Through the SWVA Agribusiness Success Center, ASD provides business development support to agricultural entrepreneurs in Southwest Virginia, helping new and beginning farmers build viable farm enterprises. Additional programs include Groundwork, Grow Your Own, Learning Landscapes (which supports farm-to-school initiatives), and the Patriot Garden Box Project, which serves veterans and military families.

ASD also offers planting stock and Appalachian Harvest Beef through its online shop, connecting consumers directly with regionally produced agricultural products. The organization hosts events including farm-to-table dinners and wildcrafting workshops, and publishes newsletters, press releases, and in-the-news updates to keep its community informed.