Alaska imports 96 percent of its food, and the governor says that should change.
The Juneau Empire reports Gov. Bill Walker spoke during a conference for the National Association of Farmer’s Market Nutrition Programs.
He said population growth since statehood helped reduce the percentage of locally-grown food that residents consumed from half to 4 percent.
He said he would like to see significant growth in the percentage of Alaska-grown food.
Walker noted there are now 42 farmers markets statewide compared to 11 in 2004.
Farmers face challenges like permafrost and a short growing season.
Growing methods using hydroponics, shipping containers and other innovative techniques are being used.
Walker said the state spends $2 billion annually on food.