Data Layer & Public Participation Program
Mapping underserved agricultural communities and building a nationwide data commons
What This Program Does
The Data Layer & Public Participation Program establishes the strategic framework and technical architecture for our Google Maps Platform integration. It visualises underserved agricultural areas using authoritative USDA/ERS data combined with a moderated crowdsourcing system.
A coordinated nationwide video campaign drives high-quality public participation — turning the map into a living, community-verified resource that funders, policymakers, and farmers can trust.
This is the foundation on which every other LFFCI program is built: before we can close information gaps, we must first make them visible.
Program Highlights
- ✓Hybrid data layer — official USDA/ERS data + community-verified submissions
- ✓Quality submission & moderation workflow
- ✓6-phase video campaign with measurable KPIs
- ✓Full 501(c)(3) and Georgia charitable compliance
- ✓Target: 500 active contributors by 2027, 5,000+ by 2030
Explore the Geographic Data Layer
Underserved areas, program locations, and partner networks across our service region — updated as the community contributes.
View locations as a list
Map data for illustrative purposes. LFFCI is a 501(c)(3) public charity (EIN 38-4382198).
How to Participate
Submit a Location
Know an underserved farming community, resource gap, or opportunity site? Add it to the map. Our team reviews every submission before publishing.
Add to the MapShare the Campaign
Our video campaign brings the map to life. Follow along and share our updates to help grow the community data commons.
Stay in the LoopPartner With Us
Extension offices, universities, and farm organisations can contribute datasets and help verify submissions in their region.
Partner With LFFCIBe Part of the Solution
Every data point submitted brings us closer to a complete picture of where help is needed most.