Missouri Workshop Addresses Scaling Up Local Food Systems
Those who are interested in learning strategies for creating dynamic local food systems to help communities establish thriving local businesses, protecting natural resources and strengthen community ties, or who have clients who wish to expand local food systems beyond farmers’ markets and community gardens can attend a two-day workshop designed specifically for community economic development professionals and extension educators. Attendees will be introduced to the latest concepts in local foods, including tours and discussions of models that connect farmers with processors, institutions, restaurants and grocery stores.
By the end of the workshop attendees will be able to:
- Describe the drivers of demand for making locally produced food available beyond CSAs and farmers’ markets in the community.
- Describe successful examples of farmers, distributors, food services, and grocers who are “scaling up”.
- Explain the concept of tiers of the food system, especially in helping clients move beyond direct marketing.
- Describe the components involved in successful scaling up.
- List at least five tools, resources, and expertise needed for scaling up.
Attendees will have the opportunity to meet others in the region who are working on creating and strengthening local food systems.
The workshop will take place May 30-31, 2012 at the University of Missouri. To register, contact Debi Kelly by May 24th, 2012. Registration is free for state and federal agency personnel, and $40 for others. Registration includes materials, tours, and meals. Lodging information is available upon request.
This event is supported, in part, by NCR-SARE's Professional Development Program.
Contact Missouri SARE State Co-Coordinator, Debi Kelly, for more information.
Debi Kelly
Extension Associate
University of Missouri
234 Ag Engineering Building
Columbia, MO 65211
Phone: 573.882.1905
Email: kellyd@missouri.edu
