Communities based on small and family sized farms are in decline as the agricultural economy is transformed into a service economy. This decline affects farmers and their families, in turn, who are looking for source of off farm employment. This is particularly true for the rapidly declining Black Belt counties in the South and for the declining numbers of Black farmers. Previous attempts to assist the small farmer have been based on high risk specialty items such as fruits and vegetables and small animals. This project proposes to re-introduce the production of a product that has a strong cultural tie to the rural Black Belt and Black farmers-sorghum and ribbon cane syrup. The proposed research seeks to identify and refine methods for producing this kind of syrup without the use of additives and preservatives. It also seeks to examine consumer preferences, marketing analyses, and the development of alternative products for the cane juice. The successful development of this enterprise has the potential to positively influence small-scale farmers, the economy of the local community as well as provide the health conscious consumer with a high quality product.
Anticipated Results:Anticipated results include increased: 1. Income for small farmers who produce sorghum and ribbon cane. 2. Production and income for syrup producers. 3. Local employment opportunities for those involved in syrup production. 4. Local tax revenues. 5. Pride and cultural awareness of a regional product.
