BISMARCK — A pilot program aims to help sustain rural North Dakota grocery stores by developing a joint distribution network and keeping more locally produced food in the state, organizers announced Monday, Aug. 4.

The North Dakota Association of Rural Electric Cooperatives is leading the project with a $12.6 million investment from the Bush Foundation.

North Dakota has 90 small-town grocery stores, down from 137 in 2014, according to the association. These closures have led to a rise in food deserts, or areas where residents have to drive 10 miles or more to the nearest grocery store.

Some rural grocery stores pay more for wholesale products than larger chains charge customers, said Ellen Huber, rural development director for the North Dakota Association of Rural Electric Cooperatives.

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