U of M Local Foods Task Force

As the local foods movement heats up nationwide, the University of Minnesota serves as a willing partner and leader in strengthening local foods production and consumption across our state. Many people on all the University campuses, at our Research and Outreach Centers and in regional Extension offices are engaging in exciting and creative work around local foods.

It's time for us all to learn from and meet one another! Please join us on Thursday, April 10, 2008 from 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. for a kick-off event that will launch the beginning of a University of Minnesota Systemwide Task Force on Local Foods.

Tent Event

University of Minnesota

April 10, 2008

1:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Cargill Building, St. Paul Campus

Purpose: To launch coordination and strategic direction of local foods efforts within the University of Minnesota system

Outcomes: Facilitate networking of University personnel and key advocates involved with local foods

Identify major concerns, issues, and opportunities associated with local foods movement in Minnesota

Determine scope, purpose and intent of UMN Local Foods Task Force

Raise visibility of local foods activity within UMN system

Registration begins at 12:30 in the Atrium

1:00 p.m. Welcome and Opening

1:15 Round Robin Introductions

All participants will have an opportunity to meet, greet and share about their work and interest in local foods

1:45 Small Group Discussion

§ What are most critical needs to support local food systems development?

§ What are major areas for University investment/involvement that would build the capacity and strength of local food systems in Minnesota? Within the University?

§ What role would you like to see the University of Minnesota play in the next decade in helping to strengthen the local foods movement across the state

2:30 Large Group Discussion

§ Based on your conversations and your own work with local foods, what’s coming clear about the direction the University should take with respect to local foods?

2:45 Small Group Discussion

§ What outcomes would you like to see a University of Minnesota local foods task force accomplish?

§ How could it be helpful in promoting local foods within the University system – extracurricular, campus planning, dining halls, food production, etc.?

§ How could it be helpful in supporting local foods revitalization across the state?

§ What will be important for the Task Force to consider as it develops recommendations and a strategic direction for the University?

3:20 Event evaluation

3:30 Local Foods Reception

To RSVP, please register electronically at http://www.cfans.umn.edu/local_foods_event

If you have questions, please contact Margaret Adamek, Research Fellow - Local Foods, Sustianability and Wellness, for the U of M Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships. madamek@umn.edu or 612-265-5793