From field to table, our food and farming system is incredibly and increasingly complex. There are profound environmental, economic and social consequences to every aspect of our agri-food system, from the way farming is conducted to the ways agricultural products are processed, distributed and sold, to our daily food choices and their health impacts. Much of the current system is destructive to farm families, rural and urban communities, and all citizens.

NESAWG believes that regional approaches and solutions are fundamental to transforming the agri-food system. NESAWG is a regional network of member organizations and individuals working together to create a more sustainable and secure regional food system -- one that is economically viable, environmentally sound and socially just and produces safe and healthful food. We work at local, state, regional and national levels to redirect public policy, foster market-based innovation and generate an informed and active citizenry.

NESAWG’s mission is to strengthen the work of its members by providing active support and assistance in achieving shared food system goals. The NESAWG region embraces twelve Northeast states: Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont and West Virginia. It is one of five regional sustainable agriculture working groups in the US.

NESAWG was founded in 1992. As an unincorporated association, it is governed by Articles of Association, and guided by a Steering Committee elected by the membership. NESAWG’s activities are carried out through partnerships with member and other organizations and by a part-time staff. NESAWG's fiscal sponsor and organizational host is the New England Small Farm Institute.