Jill Schramm/MDN Brenda McCasson with Velva Fresh Foods answers a question during a panel discussion at the Souris Basin Planning Council’s State of Region 2 meeting in the North Dakota State Fair Center Thursday, Oct. 30. Other panelists shown are Matt McCasson of Velva, center, and Charlie Hannon of Stanley, right.

Rural communities have been challenged to maintain local groceries, but a new food hub concept could help.

The proposed North Central Grocery & Food Hub Initiative in the Minot region will pilot new ways for rural grocers and producers to come together, cut costs and expand markets. Souris Basin Planning Council highlighted the initiative in a panel discussion at its State of Region 2 meeting in Minot Thursday, Oct. 30.

“We’ve identified about eight grocery stores in the su

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