The Northwest Colorado Food Coalition on March 5 hosted a regional food system convening in partnership with the Economic Development Council of Colorado. This event, held in Craig, was part of a broader conversation about economic development in the region.

It might be surprising to see agriculture featured prominently in discussions about economic development in the Yampa Valley, but in times of economic uncertainty, primary sectors like agriculture serve as a stabilizing force. In economic development terms, primary sectors refer to industries that create goods or services that are in demand from consumers outside the region. Agriculture, along with mining and energy, has historically been one of the foundational pillars of Northwest Colorado’s economy, contributing significantly to its financial stability and resilience.

The current landscape of agriculture in the Yampa Valley

Agriculture remains an essential industry in Northwest Colorado, supporting local livelihoods and serving as a key economic driver. Ranching and farming in the Yampa Valley not only provide food for local and national markets but also help maintain the open spaces and natural beauty that attract tourism and outdoor recreation. However, like all industries, agriculture is subject to larger economic forces, including market shifts, supply chain disruptions and trade policies.

One pressing challenge currently facing agricultural producers in the region is the impact of international trade tariffs. Global trade dynamics, including retaliatory tariffs on American agricultural exports, have placed additional strain on farmers and ranchers who rely on stable export markets. These challenges highlight the need for local and regional food systems to become more resilient, ensuring producers have diverse market opportunities.

Strengthening local and regional food systems

The recent convening in Craig brought together stakeholders from across the food system — producers, policymakers, economic developers and food businesses — to explore strategies for strengthening regional food networks. Investing in local processing infrastructure, expanding direct-to-consumer markets, and fostering connections between regional producers and institutional buyers were among the key topics discussed.

One example of this shift is the increasing interest in value-added agriculture. By processing raw agricultural products into consumer-ready goods — such as locally milled flour, artisanal cheeses or regionally branded beef — producers can capture more of the economic value of their goods and create jobs within the region.

Regional summits feeding into a statewide vision

The Northwest Colorado convening is one of several regional food summits taking place statewide this year, all of which will contribute to the broader Colorado Food Summit at year-end. The vision for the Colorado Food Summit is to create an annual space for statewide coordination, reflection and celebration, which generates measurable progress toward a food and agricultural system that centers the health and well-being of all residents and the landscape. More information about this initiative can be found at Colorado Food Summit 2025.

Looking ahead

As Northwest Colorado continues to navigate economic transitions, agriculture remains a critical sector that not only preserves the region’s heritage but also presents opportunities for innovation and growth. With strategic investment and collaboration, the region’s food system can become a model for sustainable economic development.

By recognizing the role agriculture plays in economic resilience and investing in policies that support local producers, Northwest Colorado can chart a path forward that honors its past while embracing a dynamic future. The recent convening in Craig was a step in this direction, fostering important discussions that will help shape the economic future of the Yampa Valley. To learn more, check out the next NW Colorado Food Coalition Meeting scheduled for 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. May 1 in Hayden.

Libby Christensen is a statewide food and agriculture specialist with Colorado State University.