West Central MN Regional Food Council Seeking Council Member Applicants
The West Central Minnesota Food Policy Council (FPC) is a diverse and inclusive group of individuals and organizations interested in improving food policy in Clay, Becker, Otter Tail, and Wilkin Counties. The FPC works to identify policy and program opportunities to expand small-scale farming and improve access to more fresh and nutritious food for all West Central Minnesota residents. The FPC also works to empower residents to live more sustainably. The FPC is guided in its work by the West Central Minnesota Regional Food System Plan published in September 2023.
Our next step is to form the regional food council to advance unique elements of the food systems plan. Consider applying for this exciting inaugural council by September 29. Get the application by clicking here
View a PDF of the regional food plan with appendices here
Click here to learn more about our mission and purpose of the Regional Food Council which includes information on meeting structure, membership and expectations.
Questions? Contact Jason Bergstrand at jason.bergstrand@claycountymn.gov
What is a food system plan?
A food systems plan is a long-range planning document that lays out a
community’s vision for its growth. Planning brings structure and
strategy to local food systems growth, and helps align policies, such as
ordinances, zoning, and incentives to support the local food system.
What is asset mapping?
Asset mapping is a systematic process of cataloging key services, benefits, and
resources within the community, such as individuals’ skill sets, organizational
resources, physical space, institutions, associations, and elements of the local
economy. This will also help us identify what’s missing.
How will the information be used?
Information collected from all three sessions will be aggregated to paint the full
picture of what kinds of resources are currently in place to support a resilient food
system. Findings from the sessions will be included in the final draft of the regional
food systems plan.
Events
Asset Mapping Events Completed December 2022
Community Engagement Survey – April – May 2023
Community Engagement Meal & Discussions (4) communities locations to be determined early summer
Leadership Team
Emily Reno – Project lead & facilitator, Creating Community Consulting
Patrick Hollister – Active Living Planner, PartnerSHIP 4 Health
Jason Bergstrand – Manager, PartnerSHIP 4 Health
Mike Zastoupil – Agricultural & Food Systems Planner, Minnesota Department of Agriculture Kate Mudge – West Central Initiative Foundation Luke Preussler -Manager, Community Health Integration CHI Health Annabelle Scafe – Center for Small Towns, UMN Morris