Community food systems
Community food systems
A thriving local food system complements a healthy global food system by increasing agricultural literacy, enhancing food security and creating localized economic resiliency.
Work in the urban or small farm community food sector is not at odds with regional or even global agricultural systems. In fact, each part can work to multiply the benefits to each other.
In Idaho, the potential for this synergy is strengthened by the convergence of our agricultural history, land and water resources, University of Idaho Extension’s presence, the collaboration among agencies and organizations such as the Idaho State Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Idaho Farmers' Market Association and, of course, consumer demand and engagement.
Areas of work
Our Extension educators working in community food systems are engaged in collaborations and activities that include:
- Facilitating local and community food systems initiatives
- Assisting with the development of local food coalitions and food policy councils
- Enhancing farm to school and farm to early childhood education
- Rapid market assessment of farmers markets
- Evaluating economic impact of local food initiatives
Looking for support for your local food system projects? Contact one of our Extension educators:
- Eastern Idaho: Jennifer Werlin
- Southwest Idaho: Ariel Agenbroad
- Northern Idaho: Colette DePhelps
Partnerships
All of our work in community food systems is collaborative. Here are just a few of the organizations with which we work closely.