Think Local First – Talking and Walking ‘Local’ in Manitoba

In February, I participated in a number of conferences and sessions. The first, on February 2nd in Swan Lake, was hostd by Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives and focused on  the Harvest Moon Local Food Initiative and the process of starting a related project in your own locale (Poster). The next was in Winnipeg at the Growing Local, Getting Vocal conference on grassroots solutions to the global food crisis. I also participated as a facilitator in a workshop on Community-University research partnerships.  I also had the pleasure of participating and presenting as the last speaker at the Direct Farm Markeing Conference in Brandon. Finally, I participated in the PrioNet conference in Edmonton, Alberta to discuss the need for research that contributes to a better of how farm families adapt to BSE. This research can generate knowledge, while at the same time facilitate real-world adaptation.

I truly enjoy the opportunity to speak about and discuss the work of the communities that I am involved with such as the Harvest Moon Society (HMS), Harvest Moon Society Local Food Initiative and the Manitoba Food Charter. Grassroots action is only one part of an effort to affect broader social change. It is refreshing to step back, take a breath and share with others. Important connections are made this way and it gives others an opportunity to see what can be accomplished, what is effective and how to learn from the mistakes of others. As a researcher, I’ve had the unorthodox opportunity to both walk and talk my research. That is, I am both contributing to grassroots action, while at the same time have the privilege to document, write up and communicate with a broader community about this important work.

Click here for a news article about the Swan Lake presentation.