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LOCAL FOOD SYSTEM AFoundations of a Vibrant and Healthy Local Food System
local food system is one in which sustainable food production, processing, distribution and consumption are integrated to enhance the environmental, economic, social and nutri-
tional health of a community. The appeals of a local food system are many:
• it offers farmers an opportunity to reclaim a larger
portion of the food dollar through innovative direct marketing, local processing and other value-added activities;
• consumers develop opportunities to reconnect with their food supply; and
• communities gain opportunities to strengthen their social and economic health by creating meaningful jobs and recirculating social and financial capital locally.*
The following pages include the many areas in which the La Crosse area is creating a healthy and vibrant local food system, from farmers markets to CSAs, pro- cessors, distributors, retailers, and the many exciting initiatives and events promoting the nutritional and environmental health of the community.
*Growing a Community Food System—Steven Garrett, Extension Faculty, Washington State University and Gail Feenstra, Food Systems Analyst, University of California Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Program, Davis, California.
RIVERSIDE PARK
Since spring 2014, La Crosse’s farmers market, previously held in the parking lot south of the Law Enforcement Center, has been held at
Riverside Park. Approximately 50 vendors sell fresh produce, bedding plants, perennials, flowers, herbs, honey, houseplants, and crafts. The farmers market is run by La Crosse Parks, Recreation & Forestry department.
Zach Miller, Onalaska, enjoys shopping at the Hmoob Cultural and Community Agency (formerly the Hmong Mutual Assistance Association) farmers market
on Ward Avenue.
ONALASKA
T
sell fruits, vegetables, artisan cheese, honey, herbs, flowers, and an ever-changing array of other seasonal products. The farmers market is run by Onalaska Festival Foods.
he Onalaska farmers market, held on Sundays, is located in the Festival Foods parking lot at Crossing Meadows. Approximately 35 vendors
THE LA CROSSE AREA’S GROWING EXPERIENCE past | present | future
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PHOTO: Vicki Miller
PHOTO: RJ & Linda Miller Photography