Center for Regional Food Systems

This report examines local food councils in the state of Michigan and the potential for developing a statewide network of local food policy councils and similar groups. It is based on in-depth analysis of prior local food council network work, interviews with local food council leaders and feedback received from participants in two preliminary local food council network meetings.

The primary purpose of this study was to better understand current context and areas of work among Michigan’s local food councils, confirm that demand was present for such a network and identify functions of a local food council network. This report will also demonstrate ways a local food council network and participating councils can help move the goals of the Michigan Good Food Charter forward without duplicating the efforts of other local food networks.