Food transporters are our lifeline for survival on Beaver Island. For 4 months out of the year we are entirely dependent on the airways to supply our local grocer, gas station and restaurants. During season, the ferry boat expands capacity however, with the growing demand for our island scaling at lightening speed, paired with unexpected weather events or changes to the boat schedule, we are still susceptible to delays in receiving food supplies.

Our vision is to create a food system that still has importing as an option but is not solely reliant on incoming food to survive. What agricultural items we cannot generate on the island can be supplemented by local Michigan farms and businesses to fill the void wherever possible.

In order for us to make this happen, it is so important that we understand the intricate dynamics of food transportation to and from the island.

For any resident/business that is a part of this segment of work, please take a few moments to complete our survey and help us learn more! Below are just a few benefits that will come from contributing to our research.