Local food systems

steve bonney (sbonney@holli.com)
Wed, 22 Jan 1997 09:46:06 -0500 (EST)

Discussions on this list often focus on negative conditions in the ecosystem
and in our culture. And, certainly, there are many of those situations to
discuss. I would like to focus on strategies for building community food
systems that support local and regional growers, strengthen rural economies,
and, probably most importantly, provide urban residents access to fresh,
minimally processed food. Although, local processing and packaging is an
important consideration in building community food systems.

These goals are an important part of our strategy to build sustainable
systems in Indiana. We are always looking for more information on what
others are doing and what literature sources are available. We would like to
build more market infrastructure (increase the effectiveness of farmers'
markets, establish wholesale markets and marketing pools, etc.) in our quest
to boost the sustainability of family style farming. Another facet of our
strategy is to involve cooperative extension in this process.

Any contributions (real examples and literature citations) would be
appreciated. I'll accept philosophical considerations only if you will agree
to receive two shovelfuls or each one you toss.
Regards,

Steve Bonney, President
Indiana Sustainable Agriculture Association
100 Georgton Ct.
W. Lafayette IN 47906
(317) 463-9366, fax (317) 497-0164
email sbonney@holli.com