Strengthening Alaska’s Food Security with Bushes Bunches
Strengthening Alaska’s Food Security with Bushes Bunches
Alaska Food Company (AFC) is committed to building a stronger, more resilient food system for Alaska, and that mission is made possible through partnerships with local farmers like Bushes Bunches. With deep roots in Alaska’s agricultural community, Bushes Bunches has been growing fresh, high-quality produce since 1956. What started as a roadside radish stand founded by the Bush family has grown into a thriving operation under the leadership of Bruce Bush, who expanded the business into a farm, a retail store, and a presence at the Alaska State Fair. Today, Bruce has passed the torch to Karrianne and Zach, who are dedicated to continuing the Bush family legacy while adapting to the unique challenges of farming in Alaska.
Farming in Alaska: Challenges and Rewards
Farming in Alaska comes with its own set of challenges. A short growing season, high input costs, and constant threats from moose damage make it difficult to maximize yields. Unlike other regions, farmers here have a tight window to plant and harvest before winter sets in. Additionally, expenses for seeds, soil, fertilizer, and labor are often nearly double those in the Lower 48.
“There is such a short window for getting crops in the ground and out before the frost hits,” says Karrianne. “It’s a race against time every season, and we don’t have the luxury of doing extra things like cover cropping or soil improvements the way farmers do in other states.”
Yet despite these hardships, the rewards of farming in Alaska are just as great. The long summer days lead to nutrient-rich, flavorful produce, and the unwavering support of Alaskan communities keeps farmers like Karrianne and Zach motivated.
“We have the best fan club in the country,” Karrianne shares. “Alaskans love their fresh vegetables, and they truly value their local farmers. That support is what keeps us going despite all the challenges.”
Partnering with AFC: A Shared Mission for Food Security
Bushes Bunches and AFC first connected over a shared passion for food security in Alaska. After seeing AFC’s commitment to reducing food waste and increasing accessibility to locally grown, nutritious food, Bushes Bunches knew they wanted to be involved.
“When we saw what AFC was doing and tasted their amazing mashed potatoes, we knew we wanted to be a part of that venture,” Karrianne recalls. “They’re making a real difference in getting local food into Alaska’s schools and villages.”
Bruce Bush played a key role in establishing this partnership, recognizing that AFC’s ability to freeze-dry local produce would create new opportunities for getting Alaska-grown food to more communities. AFC provides an important wholesale outlet for Bushes Bunches, purchasing not only their premium (#1) produce but also their #2 produce—items that may have cosmetic imperfections but are still perfectly good to eat.
“By working with AFC, we’re cutting down on waste. We are using our #2 produce and turning them into nutritious food for Alaskans,” says Karrianne. “That’s a win-win for everyone.”
Strengthening Local Food Systems
AFC’s work aligns with the mission of Bushes Bunches: keeping Alaskan-grown food in Alaska. By processing and distributing local produce efficiently, AFC is making high-quality, shelf-stable products more accessible throughout the state. This is what true food security looks like—food grown, processed, and consumed within Alaska’s borders.
For Alaskans who want to support their local food system, the best way is to shop at places like Bushes Bunches Stand, visit farmers markets, and choose Alaska Grown products in grocery stores. Additionally, advocating for policies that fund programs like AFC’s efforts to bring local food into schools, senior centers, and villages can make a lasting impact.
“One thing we wish more people understood is the cost of growing food in Alaska,” says Karrianne. “Sometimes we hear complaints about our prices, and we truly wish we could charge less. But the reality is that our costs are much higher than those in the Lower 48, and we need to stay in business to keep feeding our community.”
At the heart of it all, Bushes Bunches and AFC share the belief that every farmer, rancher, and producer in Alaska deserves the opportunity to thrive. Through collaboration and community support, we can ensure a more sustainable, food-secure future for our state.