Food Systems Book Talk: Food Policy Councils, Civic Engagement & Community Well-Being

Cap off the Iowa Environmental Council Annual Conference with an evening of food systems networking, local food, and conversation about how food policy councils can help build stronger, more engaged communities.

Join the Iowa Food System Coalition, Iowa Environmental Council, Cultivate Local Food Connections, and the City of Des Moines Food Sustainability Advisory Committee for a special book talk featuring Nessa Richman, Executive Director of the Rhode Island Food Policy Council and author of Food Policy Councils: Building Civic Engagement and Community Well-Being.

Drawing on research and real-world experience, the book explores the connections between food policy councils, civic engagement, democratic participation, and community well-being. It also serves as a practical guide for food system practitioners and a resource for those teaching and preparing the next generation of food system leaders.

The evening will connect those ideas to work happening here in Iowa, including the role local food policy councils and coalitions can play in identifying community priorities, bringing diverse voices to the table, and helping communities shape their local food systems.

We'll begin with food systems networking from 4–5:30 p.m., featuring locally sourced refreshments and opportunities to connect with farmers, food system leaders, community organizations, students, policymakers, funders, and others working across Iowa's food system. A book talk, conversation with Nessa, and audience Q&A will follow from 5:30–6:30 p.m.

This event follows the Iowa Environmental Council Annual Conference. We encourage you to make a day of it and attend both the conference and the Food Systems Book Talk. Registration for each event is separate.

Register for the Food Systems Book Talk

Please complete the form below to register for the event. We’ll use the information you provide to communicate with you about the event. You’ll also receive an invitation to join the Iowa Food System Coalition email list, where we share food system news, resources, events, and opportunities from across Iowa. You’ll need to confirm your subscription by email before you’re added to the list.

Before registering: Please review IFSC’s Standards of Behavior. All participants are expected to help create a welcoming, respectful, and productive space and to follow these standards while participating in the event.