Local Food and Community Development

Food is an essential component in community development. Whether in reference to a local or regional food system, food insecurity, or building programs around it, food has become a focus in community development approaches in many towns, regions and even at the country level. For example, farmers markets, community gardens, and other food centered initiatives can be used to foster community development process across a spectrum of desired outcomes . The surging interest in food for fostering community development draws attention to numerous applications, ranging from grassroots efforts, to formal programs sponsored by the public or nonprofit sectors. These efforts are often in conjunction with local private businesses, helping create micro-businesses and supporting the small farm movement. Some regions are even considering economic development strategies of "food clusters" to promote speciality food businesses and supporting programs. This volume explores the relationships between food and community, and what various approaches imply for development through a selection of chapters illustrating a range of applications. This book is a compilation of articles published in the journal Community Development.