Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture

Completed Competitive Grant

Regional Flavors

Project ID: M2010-23

Abstract

Northwest Iowa county agencies and groups worked together to promote the unique aspects of their local production system. Tools include mapping, marketing, outreach and education, and branding.

Key Question: What are the local flavors of Northwest Iowa and how can citizens effectively network, distribute information, and promote those flavors in order to support local food business development and foster rural economic development.

Findings: By mapping "flavors," involving partners and stakeholders, and increasing community awareness through marketing, a regional identity has begun to emerge. The identity is rooted in traditional approaches to gardening paired with growing attention to the social, environmental and economic need to "buy local."

Lead investigator: Sherry McGill, ISU Extension

Co-Investigator(s):

Abbie Gaffey, ISU Extension

Year of grant completion: 2012

This competitive grant project was part of the Leopold Center's Marketing Initiative.

Topics: Agritourism and place-based food, Community-based food systems