On Wednesday, May 7th I made the trek to Waldorf, Maryland for an evening surrounded by the most diverse group of folks brought together by their interest of local foods issues.
The Foodways Community Networking Event was held by the Southern Maryland Food Council to create cross-sector connections between people interested in food-related topics.
There were representatives from
- Local K-12 Schools
- Farmers
- Hunger Community
- Health Department
- St. Mary’s University Students
- Prince George’s Food Equity Council
- Accokeek Foundation
- Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission
- Southern Maryland Food Council
- University of Maryland Extension
- Watermen
The night was comprised of “speed dating” round tables focused on specific topics related to the food system, e.g., distribution, environmental impacts, agriculture, food labeling, healthy food budgeting, natural foods, food waste, and community gardens.
After three table break outs with conversations no one wanted to end, we came back together as a group to share some final thoughts.
The group had an overwhelming interest in …
- Food hubs
- Hunger
- Education
- Legislation
- Transportation
The evening concluded with the group agreeing on the importance of “voting with our forks.” The present day industrial food system is overwhelming and unnecessarily complicated. But the market is driven by demand and although it will take time and commitment, we can refocus our food purchases by “voting with our fork” to support local, sustainable farmers.
Do we need industrial agriculture to feed the world? No. And with dedicated citizens, like the ones in Southern Maryland, coming together around local food issues, we can permanently transition to a more local and sustainable food system.