Published at: 3/2021
Following a statewide grass-fed value chain analysis, the project aims to work more deeply in a watershed near Chicago to support grass-based production, expand processing and distribution, and connect producers and aggregators to buyers in Chicago, particularly institutions. The purpose of this memo is to describe the rationale for selecting a watershed(s) for deepening place-based engagement. Three components for assessing watershed suitability for regenerative grazing were explored: mapping analysis of 14 spatial datasets, stakeholder feedback, and additional research. Watersheds were ranked and prioritized for further engagement.