COVID-19 Resources Feed

A farm shop is a permanent or semi-permanent structure where farm products from a specific farm or multiple farms, both fresh and processed (such as jams, honey and cheese), are offered for direct sale to consumers. Shops are normally open to the public y...

It’s been four months since Utah public schools closed on March 16 and I’d like to take the time to explain a bit about how our food system was impacted by COVID-19 and why. For some of you, these impacts may be obvious, but certainly not to all.

In today’s blog, I will discuss the state of consumer spending nationwide and in Utah, specifically related to food and markets of interest to you. I’ll also cover meat processing trends and agricultural labor issues.

As the government encourages business openings, we must not end the preventative measures we each take to limit the spread of COVID-19. Unfortunately, behavior in communities since May 1 suggests that many think we are past the threat – fewer people are w...

In today’s blog, I will cover in more detail the impacts of COVID-19 on consumers and local food systems. While consumer spending in general is down nationwide (-20.5% through April 30, 2020) and in Utah (-17.5%), consumer spending on groceries

Today’s blog is the final in a four-part series on options and strategies for online direct sales of local farm products. In this edition, I will discuss online strategies for customer communication and relationship building.

Today’s blog is the third in a four-part series on options and strategies for online direct sales of local farm products. In this edition, I will discuss using social media such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, for local food sales and promotion. Your...

Today’s blog is the second in a four-part series on options and strategies for online direct sales of local farm products. In this edition, I will focus on online stores, sometimes referred to as an online marketplace, online farmers’ market, farm stand, ...

The first in a four-part series on options and strategies for online direct sales of local farm products. In this edition, I will focus on more traditional “distanced” direct sales outlets and other “easy” online sales options. Specifically, community sup...

As we all know, food markets change rapidly as consumer preferences evolve and respond to new information, trends, and fads. However, due to the recent outbreak of COVID-19, food markets and supply chains are changing at an even faster rate, daily in some...

Not surprisingly, scammers are taking advantage of the fears that surround the Coronavirus. In fact, the Federal Trade Commission has already communicated with several scammers who are selling phony Coronavirus “treatments.” Scammers have set up websites ...

In difficult economic times, many people consider purchasing chickens as part of their domestic safety net. Raising chickens, however, is distinctly different than stocking up on food storage or bottled water.

Practicing good hygiene, washing hands for at least 20 seconds, covering a cough or sneeze and avoiding contact with others are all important steps to help thwart the spread of coronavirus.

Currently, there is no evidence that the coronavirus spreads via foods. Instead, it is spread person-to-person. This includes spread via an infected person’s bodily fluids that are present in aerosols (coughs or sneezes) and on surfaces.

Are you feeling afraid, nervous or anxious about the coronavirus and other catastrophes? If so, you are not alone. A threat such as this may only happen once in a lifetime, and we may not feel prepared to deal with it and the associated emotional impacts....

USU Extension Expert Callie Ward provides guidance on how to help children deal with a disaster which includes dealing with the Coronavirus and earthquakes.

While many are at home due to closures of Coronavirus, an extra load is placed on parents to help manage their home. Finding engaging and enriching activities can be a challenge. Thankfully, Discover 4-H curriculum began several years ago and has been dev...

Utah State University Extension provides research-backed information to help Utah residents as they maneuver the challenges this new virus brings.