Development of a sustainable regional food system calls for a shared understanding of what is local.  When we buy locally and sustainably produced foods, we are supporting the development of a web of relationships, rooted in place.  These relationships reflect a significant change in the goals, strategies and practices of local food businesses.  A shared understanding of what makes for a healthy community food economy will help to align development strategies and change the public’s perception that locally produced foods cost more. 

• Publish results of local food economy study in articles in a number of publications.  Lead organization: EcoPraxis

• Build an analysis about local global links [in the food system] and the need to strengthen local economies, everywhere.  Lead organization: Community Alliance for Global Justice

Action to Take:  Organize opportunities, like dinners, for people to discuss what local means. 

Action to Try:  Generate series of articles in visible local media.

Action with Stretch:  Replicate and elaborate visual representation of our “local” web of relationships to nurture sense of place in network.