WSARE 2000 Farmer/Rancher Grants-MW00-117

TITLE: The Original Cache Junction Families Popped Wheat

The Wes Roundy Family will market a value added wheat product with the help of a grant from WSARE

Because of the low market value for wheat, many farmers are looking to alternative sources of income, both on and off the farm. Wes Roundy, a third generation northern Utah farmer, has adopted a plan to sell a value added grain product from his farm. The Roundy's believe that "The Original Cache Junction Family Popped Wheat Snack" will help stabilize their farm income, provide for their children and grandchildren, and provide a model for other farmers interested in selling a value added product.

Because the Roundy's are new at such a marketing venture, they will use funds received from a Western SARE Marketing grant to buffer the risk involved in developing a new product. Before producing the popped wheat, the Roundy's will conduct a marketing analysis to see if there is a real market for their product. If the results of the analysis are favorable, they will move into the production phase of the project. If they are not, the Roundy's will not continue the project.

To produce the popped wheat, the Roundy's hope to either rent or build a certified kitchen. They will then purchase all the ingredients and print materials for labels and brochures. To market and sell their product, they will travel to food trade shows and regional chambers of commerce. The results of the project will be measured by the success of "The Original Cache Junction Family Popped Wheat Snack."