Designing the food system we want to see takes intention, strategy, and a clear understanding of where we’re starting. Food system assessments establish baseline conditions across the system—such as production, processing, retail, food access, and food waste—grounded in both data and community experience. Food system plans then translate that information into shared goals, policy recommendations, and actionable strategies.

As a solo practitioner, and in collaboration with New Venture Advisors, I’ve had the opportunity to lead dozens of food system assessment and planning projects. A few highlights include:

• City of Flagstaff and Northern Arizona Community Food System Assessment

• Kent County Food System Plan

• San Luis Valley Community Food & Agriculture Assessment

• Whatcom County Food System Plan

• Food System Master Plan: Riley County & the City of Manhattan, Kansas

• City of Wichita / Sedgwick County Food System Master Plan

Once your community has a food system plan or other priorities, it’s time to implement it!  I can also provide support with:

• Creating a work plan for your food policy council - to help bring prioritization and structure to your plan implementation.

• Translating plan language into actionable policy- think: ordinances, resolutions, and statutes.