Understanding Food Policy Councils: Lessons for Extension Partners

Authors

Gail Feenstra, University of California Davis, UCANR
Clare Gupta, University of California DavisFollow
David Campbell, University of California, Davis
Jennifer Sowerwine, University of California, Berkeley
Katherine Munden-Dixon, University of California, Davis

Volume

59

Issue

3

DOI

10.34068/joe.59.03.09

Abstract

This paper presents findings from a survey of 34 food policy councils (FPCs) in California. The survey addressed organizational structure and functions, policy priorities and achievements, and the use of research or other information. We find that most FPCs have formed in recent years, operate with small budgets and limited or no staff, and function primarily to foster network relationships. FPCs rely on community-based knowledge more than academic research, suggesting an opportunity for Extension professionals to lend expertise. We conclude by identifying specific ways Extension professionals can support FPCs as they seek to enhance local and regional food systems.

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 4.0 License.

Recommended Citation

Feenstra, G., Gupta, C., Campbell, D., Sowerwine, J., & Munden-Dixon, K. (2021). Understanding Food Policy Councils: Lessons for Extension Partners. The Journal of Extension, 59(3), Article 9. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.59.03.09