The Land Connection and iRegen are thrilled to welcome Ken Meter to present on his book, Building Community Food Webs.
Our current food system has decimated rural communities and confined the choices of urban consumers. While America continues to ramp up farm production to astounding levels, net farm income is now lower than at the onset of the Great Depression. Additionally, one out of every eight Americans faces hunger. But a healthier and more equitable food system is possible. In Building Community Food Webs, Ken Meter shows how grassroots food and farming leaders across the U.S. are tackling these challenges by constructing civic networks. Overturning extractive economic structures, these inspired leaders are engaging low-income residents, farmers, and local organizations in their quest to build stronger communities.
…for each dollar we spend buying commodities from a farmer, we give a second dollar to our health care system to treat us for the consequences of the food we eat…
Community food webs strive to build health, wealth, capacity, and connection. Their essential element is building greater respect and mutual trust, so community members can more effectively empower themselves and address local challenges. Farmers and researchers may convene to improve farming practices collaboratively. Health clinics help clients grow food for themselves and attain better health. Food banks engage their customers to challenge the root causes of poverty. Municipalities invest large sums to protect farmland from development. Developers forge links among local businesses to strengthen economic trade. Leaders in communities marginalized by our current food system are charting a new path forward.
My own definition of the purpose of any food system is that it should build four key strengths in each community where it operates: health, wealth, connection, and capacity. Implicit in each of these is the imperative of creating equity.
What to expect…
Do you occassionally shop the farmers market? Are you a person that eats with the seasons? Have you been looking for ideas on how to better support our community food system? This event is open to anyone interested in local food economies. We are certain you will enjoy the content Ken Meter presents on his research!
Registration is not required to attend.
5:30pm
Reception to meet Ken Meter and other food and farm system advocates.
Purchase a book or have a book signed.
Light refreshments will be served.
6:30pm
Presentation by Ken Meter on Building Community Food Webs.
This event is presented with funding from Food:Land:Opportunity and the Kinship Foundation. Want to see more events like this in our community? Make a donation to The Land Connection!
