2024 Local Food Policy Summit
From left to right: Chad Ingels (Iowa House of Representatives, 64th District), Elinor Levin (Iowa House of Representatives, 89th District), and Megan Srinivas (Iowa House of Representatives, 30th District) participating in the legislative panel at the 2023 Local Food Policy Summit in Ames.
On December 6th, food system leaders, policymakers, and community advocates gathered in Ames for the Local Food Policy Summit, part of the annual Iowa Farmers Union Convention. It was a day of connection, discussion, and reflection on the future of Iowa’s food system, bringing together diverse voices to share ideas and explore solutions.
Haley Hook and Colin Tadlock from the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) shared insights on current agricultural initiatives and efforts to strengthen food systems in Iowa. Robin Bostrom of the Iowa Economic Development Authority (EDA) provided valuable information about Rural Innovation Grants and rural grocery development, outlining their role in supporting small communities and increasing food access.
The Iowa Food System Coalition used the summit as an opportunity to officially launch our 2025 policy recommendations, which offer a roadmap for strengthening Iowa’s food system. These recommendations, developed in collaboration with our coalition members, aim to tackle key challenges, from supporting local farmers to improving access to fresh, nutritious food for all Iowans.
The summit featured a legislative panel with Chad Ingels (Iowa House of Representatives, 64th District), Elinor Levin (Iowa House of Representatives, 89th District), and Megan Srinivas (Iowa House of Representatives, 30th District). These representatives engaged in meaningful conversations about the challenges and opportunities facing Iowa’s food systems, offering unique perspectives from their legislative work.
A highlight of the day was the locally sourced lunch, which celebrated Iowa’s agricultural abundance and showcased the hard work of farmers and food producers across the state. Over the meal and throughout the day, attendees shared ideas, forged connections, and discussed ways to move forward together.
As we head into 2025 and a new administration, the Iowa Food System Coalition is energized by the momentum from this event. We remain committed to advocating for policies that uplift farmers, improve food access, and build more resilient communities.
Thank you to everyone who joined us, shared their expertise, and contributed to this important day. Together, we can create a food system that works for all Iowans.
