Master’s Degree Candidates: Evan Aprison, Scott Annis, Corey Fischer, Stephanie Lientz, Alicia Presto, Erik Sampson, and Eric Wilke Project Partners: Bill Petsche and Jason Neises, Dubuque County Extension Project Presentation to Dubuque City Council May 8, 2012

The purpose of our project is to connect the local food producers of the Driftless Area with Dubuque colleges and universities to increase the consumption of local foods.

 Research  College and University Relationship Building  Foundation for Institution-Producer Relationships  Marketing and Resource Materials  Action Plan  Recommendations

Environment Economy Social Import substitution strengthens the local economy. Access to local food gives people more fresh food options and knowledge of where their food was produced. Local food travels less distance and is often produced using methods that support land stewardship and energy conservation.

Maintain producer-institution relationship Identify demand and maintain student support Start with small goals

1.Identify local food producer challenges and needs in the Driftless Area 2.Gauge producer’s interest in selling products to Dubuque institutions

Mailed to 242 local food producers. ed to producers through 3 list serves. 67 respondents!

*Locations were found for 55 of the 67 producers.

Distance Products are Sold Other Regional Local 8 producers 14 producers Driftless Area 46 producers <50 miles

 State and Federal regulation  Producer and processing facilities  Inspection requirements for farm operations and processors  Resources for producers and institutions  Certification and food safety planning

Local Food Producer Institution Student or Advocate Organizer

Institution HandoutProducer Handout

Barb’s Pantry Long Grove, IA Donuts will be available at University of Dubuque sporting events.

Compilation of marketing messages: 1.Local food facts 2.Success stories 3.Social media-ready messages

Guide to creating and implementing a local food program at a collegiate institution Steps and information for everyone involved

How city and county government can support institutional local food programs:  Facilitate annual networking event with Dubuque County Extension  Lead by example and share your experience!  Provide incentives to purchase local products  Be a source of information  Take advantage of funding and educational opportunities  Support the formation of a local food policy council

How Dubuque County Extension can support institutional local food programs :  Facilitate annual networking event  Be a source of information and education  Support local food coordinator position to sustain our project