Thank you to everyone who joined us July 22 at Brix Cider in Mt. Horeb for our latest “State of the Food System” Presentation and Town Hall! It was a truly energizing evening that underscored the critical moment our food system is facing, from inflation and rising food insecurity to challenges for farmers and emergency food providers.
Before the main event, we had the privilege of hosting eight local farmers for a dedicated focus group.
Their insights were invaluable, shedding light on the unique challenges and threats to their operations, where they find hope in future opportunities, and the assets they see within our community. This direct input is crucial as we work to ensure the Food Action Plan truly reflects the needs of our agricultural backbone.
Later, a crowd of around 50 community members gathered, enjoying food and drinks from Brix Cider. Our presentation delved into key findings of the Food Action Plan, emphasizing the urgent need for a shorter, more resilient regional food supply chain. We discussed critical topics such as land access, the imperative to increase local food production for human consumption, and the vital role of infrastructure in fostering efficiency and cooperation. We also addressed the escalating cost of food and its direct link to rising food insecurity, examining food access through the lenses of price, proximity, and time. The growing demand for emergency food services amidst budget cuts was highlighted, alongside the importance of addressing food waste through collaboration among food sources, redistribution groups, and composters.
The subsequent town hall discussion was incredibly lively and insightful. Conversations ranged from the need for government action and advocacy to support farmers and consumers, to the importance of robust infrastructure. A powerful call was made to ensure all farmers, including commodity producers, are included in this vital discussion. We also explored successful models like the Local Food Purchase Assistance (LFPA) program, and inspiring examples from cities in Brazil that declare food a human right, and France’s network of terminal markets. The need for significant investment from slow investors, philanthropy, and venture capital in our local food systems was a recurring theme. The discussion flowed past our allotted time, with the room buzzing with continued conversations and excitement to remain engaged in this process.
Your passion and commitment are what will drive real change in Dane County’s food future. We encourage you to keep this momentum going by joining us at our next events:
- Tues, August 5 | 7:30 Happy Hour, 8-9 PM Presentation
The Madison Club (Downtown)
Dane County Food Collective’s State of the Food System Town Hall - Mon, August 11 | 5:30-7:30 PM
Lakeview Library (Northside)
Northside Food Plan Input Session
Presentation and Town Hall - Tues, August 12 | 5:30-8 PM
Vitruvian Farms (McFarland)
Future of Farming Panel
Networking, 1-hour panel discussion with diverse farmers, farm tour
Event Page - Thur, September 11 | 1-4 PM
Mt. Zion Baptist Church (Southside)
Faith and Food Summit
Gathering of faith leaders and emergency food providers
RSVP - Sat, September 27 | 2-7 PM
Yowela Farms (Stoughton)
Harvest Gathering
Day will include field tours, workshops, and community discussions based on different sectors
Event Page
We look forward to continuing these vital conversations with you! View our calendar for future community events.
