In a remarkable turn of events, Wyoming has emerged as a leader in the Farm to School movement, thanks to the relentless efforts of Bobby Lane. As the state’s Farm to School coordinator, Lane has transformed the program from a modest initiative into a nationwide model. His passion for agriculture and commitment to educating students about local food production have led to a 2,000% increase in locally sourced school meals. This success earned Wyoming the prestigious Mountain Plains Region Crunch Off title in 2024, surpassing seven other states, including previous champion Nebraska.

From Farmer to Coordinator: Bobby Lane's Journey

In the heart of Wyoming, during the crisp early days of February, Bobby Lane navigated through a farm and ranch expo with ease. A seasoned farmer who has cultivated over 1,000 acres near Riverton for decades, Lane possesses an intimate understanding of the agricultural challenges faced by growers. However, his career took an unexpected yet fulfilling turn when he became Wyoming’s Farm to School coordinator in late 2023. Within a year, Lane orchestrated a groundbreaking achievement—boosting the number of school meals featuring Wyoming products from under 2,000 in 2023 to an astounding 40,000 in 2024.

Lane’s journey began in Riverton, where he spent much of his life farming dry beans, corn, barley, and alfalfa hay. His experience also extended to state government roles, including water rights specialist and agriculture manager at the Wyoming Honor Farm. These diverse experiences equipped him with the skills needed to bridge the gap between farmers and schools. Lane’s infectious enthusiasm and genuine passion for local food have driven unprecedented collaboration across the state. He tirelessly crisscrosses Wyoming, meeting with school districts and food producers, fostering relationships that are crucial for the program’s success.

One of the most significant challenges Lane faced was educating students about the origins of their food. Many children were unaware that corn grows on cobs rather than coming pre-packaged in cans. Through hands-on activities like shucking corn, Lane has introduced students to the authentic farm-to-table experience, emphasizing the importance of local agriculture in Wyoming’s heritage.

The Impact of Lane's Efforts

From a logistical standpoint, incorporating local produce into school meals is no small feat. School districts must plan menus months in advance and source large quantities of food. Despite these challenges, Lane’s dedication has resulted in increased participation from both farmers and schools. For instance, the Natrona County School District, which serves nearly 7,000 daily meals, has scaled up its involvement in the Farm to School program under Lane’s guidance. The district now uses grant funds to purchase local products such as mushrooms, corn, and beans, encouraging students to try fresh, locally grown vegetables.

The momentum gained from Lane’s efforts culminated in Wyoming’s inaugural Farm to School Day on October 2, 2024. State officials, including First Lady Jennie Gordon, participated in serving Wyoming-grown food to students across various districts. This event not only highlighted the program’s achievements but also fostered community engagement and support.

A Vision for the Future

Bobby Lane’s impact extends beyond numbers; it represents a shift in mindset. His work has instilled a greater appreciation for local agriculture among students and educators alike. By connecting classrooms with farms, Lane has bridged the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical experience. His ultimate goal is for every state to look to Wyoming as a model for successful Farm to School programs.

For readers and journalists alike, Lane’s story offers a powerful reminder of the transformative power of passion and perseverance. In a world where food often travels thousands of miles before reaching our plates, Lane’s efforts underscore the value of supporting local agriculture and educating future generations about sustainable food practices. His success serves as an inspiration for communities everywhere to embrace and celebrate their agricultural roots.