Illinois Food System Taskforce Developing Community-Driven Solutions
Did you know that less than five percent of the food we eat in Illinois is actually grown in Illinois? This means that 95 percent of the food we eat has to be imported from other states and countries. This means we are missing out on supporting local farmers, accessing fresh and nutritious food, and building a sustainable food system.
That’s why Experimental Station is excited to launch the Illinois Food System Taskforce, which aims to develop a statewide 10-year food system roadmap by gathering input from stakeholders across Illinois.
Its mission is to build a local, just, sustainable, and resilient food system that strengthens Illinois' local food economies and improves food security for all residents. We know this isn't a quick fix—this first phase is a journey of listening to and learning from everyone involved in the food system.
So far, the taskforce has met with over 120 growers, advocates, and community members. Over the next six months, it will host a series of in-person and virtual meetings with farmers, community leaders, organizations, and advocates across Illinois to learn how we can collaboratively build a sustainable food system.
“We want to hear from everyone—from farmers, urban gardeners, chefs, restaurant owners, food educators, grocery store managers, delivery drivers, composters, seed savers, beekeepers, agricultural experts, canning enthusiasts, and everyone in between,” said Matthew Ruffi, Link Up Illinois’ Senior Program Manager.
“We need to value every voice to build something lasting,” added Liz from the Illinois Stewardship Alliance.
The Illinois Food System Task Force is supported by the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) and is comprised of representatives from the Chicago Food Policy Action Council, Down at the Farms, Illinois Farmers Market Association, Illinois Specialty Crop Growers Association, Illinois Stewardship Alliance, Seven Generations Ahead, and Think Regeneration.
to learn more and check out the upcoming meetings you can participate in!
Join us in building a sustainable and resilient Illinois food system.
