At Blue Raster, we are passionate about using GIS technology to create solutions that drive positive change. Blue Raster supported the Croatan Institute in their mission to empower underserved farmers and ranchers through the data updates and enhancements to the NC Equitable Foodshed Map.
The Croatan Institute is a nonprofit organization based in North Carolina dedicated to fostering economic and racial equity through research, policy advocacy, and direct engagement with communities. Their work focuses on creating pathways for sustainable development, specifically within underserved and marginalized communities in North Carolina.
This important project is part of the Racial Equity, Economics, Finance, and Sustainability (REEFS) program. The program provides support for farmers and ranchers in North Carolina, particularly those from historically disadvantaged communities, by helping them access critical technical assistance and financial resources. The NC Equitable Foodshed Map, a key tool in this initiative, serves as an essential resource for these farmers and ranchers to navigate the complexities of obtaining support.
Blue Raster’s Role in Supporting the NC Equitable Foodshed Map
Blue Raster was tasked with transitioning and enhancing the NC Equitable Foodshed Map, which was originally built using ArcGIS Web App Builder. The goal was to improve the user experience while preserving the map’s original functionality. A key element of our support for the Croatan Institute was transitioning the legacy application from ArcGIS Web App Builder to ArcGIS Experience Builder. The retirement of ArcGIS Web App Builder highlighted the need for a more advanced and flexible solution, making the transition to ArcGIS Experience Builder essential for enhancing the user experience and ensuring long-term sustainability of the tool. Blue Raster redesigned the map’s layout and functionalities, making it easier for farmers and ranchers to access the resources they need.
To enhance the NC Equitable Foodshed Map further, Blue Raster utilized ArcGIS Survey123 to create a feedback mechanism that allows users to share their experiences and provide valuable input. Blue Raster configured three surveys specifically designed to gather feedback from users about their interactions with USDA facilities and other services offered through the REEFS program. This feedback is essential for ensuring the map remains relevant and effective for its users. By directly collecting input from underserved farmers and ranchers, the Croatan Institute can make informed decisions about how to improve and expand the platform over time.
Additionally, Blue Raster configured ArcGIS Instant Apps with reviewer workflows for the REEFS program staff. This allowed administrators to review and manage survey responses easily. The reviewer application ensures that feedback can be tagged to specific organizations or services and prevents the submission of spam or irrelevant content.
The NC Equitable Foodshed Map and its integrated surveys are available in both English and Spanish, ensuring that language is not a barrier to accessing vital agricultural resources or sharing feedback. By offering bilingual functionality, the platform supports broader participation from diverse communities across North Carolina, helping to foster inclusivity and equity for underserved farmers and ranchers.
Empowering the REEFS Program with GIS Technology
Through this engagement, Blue Raster helped the Croatan Institute enhance the NC Equitable Foodshed Map to better serve underserved farmers and ranchers. This project supports the broader mission of the REEFS program, which works to advance racial equity and sustainability within the agricultural sector. With these tools in hand, the REEFS program staff can maintain and update the map as needed, ensuring that it remains a valuable resource for the communities it serves. By providing farmers and ranchers with the tools they need to access essential resources, the NC Equitable Foodshed Map plays a pivotal role in supporting the long-term success of underserved communities.
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