Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture

Leopold Center develops two new local food resources

Back to Leopold Letter Fall 2009

The Leopold Center’s Marketing and Food Systems Initiative has produced two new resources that are designed to answer many questions related to the sales of local foods and where to get support and assistance in this growing area of interest.

Learning About Local: A Resource Guide to Iowa Organizations and Programs Supporting Local and Regional Food Systems is a directory of 64 organizations, programs, funders and consultants that offer various forms of assistance for Iowa producers, processors, food retailers and communities interested in local and regional food systems.

“Iowa has a large, diverse network of organizations, programs, funders and consultants working in the local food arena,” said Leopold Center Associate Director Rich Pirog. “This will be the first comprehensive list of those organizations and programs that serve Iowa.”

Pirog produced the directory with assistance from Ross Baxter, Drake Agricultural Law Center intern, and Andy Larson, a specialist with Iowa State University Extension’s Small Farm Sustainability program.

The second resource answers common questions from people interested in selling at farmers markets in Iowa. Frequently Asked Questions on Food Regulations for Small Market Food Producers was compiled with the help of food safety experts and Iowa food regulatory officials.

The report provides answers to 13 common questions about direct sales. All information was reviewed by the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals Food and Consumer Safety Bureau and two Iowa State University Extension food safety specialists. The report also lists Web sites where readers can find more information on specific topics.

Pirog said the report does not offer legal advice on Iowa food regulations and food business operations. He advised that any specific questions should be directed to the Department of Inspections and Appeals Food and Consumer Safety Bureau at (515) 281-6538.

The Leopold Center is providing copies of the reports to all regional ISU extension offices and Resource Conservation and Development offices throughout Iowa.

Back to Leopold Letter Fall 2009