Five Ways to Strengthen Rural Food Distribution in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

The cover of this publication includes an outline of Michigan's Upper Peninsula

Five Ways to Strengthen Rural Food Distribution in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

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October 13, 2026 - Jamie Rahrig<rahrigj1@msu.edu> and Lindsey Scalera<scaleral@msu.edu>

Rural food distribution is complicated by limited infrastructure, sparse populations, and vast distances. These challenges exist in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (UP).

This new resource from Michigan State University Center for Regional Food Systems, Five Ways to Strengthen Rural Food Distribution in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, explores the potential impacts of investing in regional collaboration in the UP. The action brief highlights specific recommendations from the field, as well as related state and federal policies.

Those interested in improving rural food distribution as well as advancing the strategic actions of the 2022 Michigan Good Food Charter can use this document as a guide to advance accessible, healthy, fair, diverse, and equitable good food systems.

Suggested Citation  

Rahrig, J. and Scalera, L. (2026). Five Ways to Strengthen Rural Food Distribution in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Michigan State University Center for Regional Food Systems. foodsystems.msu.edu/resources/five-ways-to-strengthen-rural-food-distribution-in-michigan-s-upper-peninsula

This work was conducted through funding support from the USDA Regional Food Systems Partnership and W.K. Kellogg Foundation.

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Center for Regional Food Systems