What counts as farming: how classification limits regionalization of the food system

Regionalization is offered as a solution to the challenges that both communities and farmers face in our globalized food system. However, our research reveals that farmers' willingness and ability to adapt to a regionalized food system are tempered by social meanings of and social relationships with agriculture--or what farmers classify as 'farming'. These classifications are developed and reinforced over time and are reflective of the regional commodity history, infrastructure and policy. In essence, the 'region' simultaneously provides a space of opportunity and constrains the possibilities for adaptation. Therefore, without having an understanding of the regional commodity history and embedded classifications of farming, it is difficult for communities to assist with transforming a food system.