Resource Library
Browse 100+ resources on food systems law and policy.
Seeds for Rent
This guide explains the fine print in technology use agreements—contracts that farmers sign with seed companies to purchase and use their seeds according to the contract terms. This guide also compares technology use agreements among the three largest seed companies in the US.
Topic: Farmland Access, Heirs' Property Audience: Attorneys, GrowersHeirs’ Property: Understanding the Legal Issues by State
Factsheets that aim to prevent the loss of land owned as heirs’ property in specific states. Each examines state laws that are relevant to heirs’ property owners, and outlines steps owners can take to resolve property issues before seeing an attorney.
Topic: Food Safety Audience: Attorneys, Processors & DistributorsA Guide for Food Hubs on Food Safety Compliance
This guide outlines the legal landscape for food hub decisionmakers looking to build food safety compliance and risk management strategies.
Topic: Business Practices Audience: Attorneys, GrowersA Working Guide to Current Use Taxation for Agricultural Lands
This guide examines current use policies and programs as a tool for farmland preservation, identifies common challenges and opportunities of these programs, and provides recommendations for how programs could be adapted to better preserve farmland.
Topic: Business Practices Audience: Attorneys, GrowersReorganizing a Farm Business with Chapter 12 of the Bankruptcy Code
This guide describes how reorganization through Chapter 12 of the Bankruptcy Code is a tool for farmers looking to restructure debt, change production models, or transition their farm to the next generation.
Topic: Healthy Food Access Audience: Attorneys, Community Organizations, Policymakers, ResearchersPolicy Drafting Companion Guide
This resource introduces common elements of laws and offers recommended practices in the drafting process for those who may be exploring or entering the world of local policymaking, as well as those who want to advocate for healthy food access policies.
Topic: Other Audience: AttorneysFarm & Food Law: A Guide for Lawyers in the Legal Food Hub
This guide provides legal information to help attorneys build successful relationships with and provide support to small-scale farmers, food entrepreneurs, and other related nonprofit and community organizations in Vermont.