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Farm to School Census

We have been tracking the growth and change of farm to school programming across the country since 2013. The Farm to School Census (the Census) is a one-of-a-kind, quadrennial survey sent to school food authorities (SFAs) participating in the National School Lunch Program. To date, we have conducted four censuses: 2013, 2015, 2019, and 2023.

This nationwide survey is the largest of its kind, surveying more than 18,000 SFAs serving public, private, and charter schools participating in the National School Lunch Program. The Census is the largest dataset in the country regarding the use of local food in school meals and other nutrition education activities. Check out the links below to learn more about the extent of farm to school participation nationwide and by individual school food authorities.

2027 Farm to School Census

2023 Farm to School Census

2019 Farm to School Census

Hungry for more information?

Please go to the USDA's Farm to School Program fact sheets page.

To receive information and updates from USDA’s Farm to School Program, subscribe to The Dirt our monthly e-letter.

Page updated: October 20, 2026