This project focuses on strengthening production and marketing of organic agriculture in the West Kootenays. A concerted effort to raise the profile of organic agriculture in the region has wide ranging benefits for local communities including better personal health decreased dependence on conventional chemical agriculture community economic development through supporting local farmers and increased awareness of local food issues and where our food comes from. The Kootenay Organic Grower's Society (KOGS) is the only regional organization that represents the area's organic farmers and processors. KOGS currently has almost 30 certified organic farms and processors and a full membership of over 50 individuals and businesses covering the entire Kootenay region from Creston to Nakusp and Castlegar to Invermere. This proposal reflects both the priorities of members expressed in the 2000 member survey and 2001 phone survey and the strategy outlined by the KOGS Board during its strategic planning retreat in May 2001.