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Austin, Travis County's Food System Plan for Greater Resilience

2024-12-12

After years of work and input from thousands of residents, Austin and Travis County have finally approved their first-ever food plan. This significant step aims to tackle access and production issues that have long plagued the county. With less than 0.1% of food grown locally and over 1 in 10 people struggling to access healthy food, the need for action was clear. The plan comes in response to the widespread food system setbacks and shortages experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic and Winter Storm Uri, and it anticipates future climate disruptions.

Empowering Central Texas with a Sustainable Food Future

How the Food Planning Process Began

In 2021, Austin officials launched the food planning process. Recent events exposed the fragility of the supply chain and food access barriers. City food policy manager Edwin Marty emphasized the need to respond to these challenges and the changing climate. "It's going to get hotter, drier, wetter and colder. All of these extremes are going to happen more frequently," he said. Although a regional food policy board had existed since the late 2000s, it never had a public mandate for action until governments, nonprofits and residents came together. Council member Alison Alter praised the process as a model example of inclusive, intentional and meaningful community participation.

Residents, local groups and governments will now pursue dozens of strategies laid out in the "plan of plans" through the 2020s and beyond. These strategies aim to fill the cracks in Central Texas' food system by encouraging more local production, addressing disparities and improving food access for residents.

The Approaches in the Food Plan

The plan's more than 60 approaches have the potential to change where residents can get healthy food, the cost, the products available and who's involved across the food system. Preserving property for food-related uses, encouraging food production features in new developments and creating an urban farming plan are among the dozen concepts tied to land. Some strategies are also aimed at breaking down barriers for farmers and improving conditions for food workers earning below a living wage.

For example, by preserving land for food production, we can ensure a more stable food supply. Encouraging food production in new developments will not only increase local food availability but also enhance the overall quality of life in the community. And an urban farming plan can bring fresh produce closer to residents, reducing the carbon footprint associated with transporting food.

Local Food Access and Resilience

Those involved in the food planning process agree that local food access and resilience can be improved if more food eaten here also comes from around Austin. According to the Department of Agriculture, only 0.06% of food consumed in Travis County was grown here. Transported food is less fresh and leaves a much higher overall carbon footprint than local production and distribution. It also puts the area at risk of supply chain disruptions and access issues, as seen during recent emergencies.

While Travis County still has hundreds of square miles of farmland, federal reporting shows that much of it isn't used for food consumption. Food policy stakeholders also note that the area's urban gardens and larger agricultural facilities are dwindling. Marty predicts that these trends will likely continue due to economic factors and escalating development across the region, with more farmland being replaced by commercial space and housing. From 2017-22 alone, Travis County lost more than 200 farms and nearly 40 square miles of agricultural space.

Food Access and Security in Central Texas

Hundreds of thousands of Central Texans regularly face issues with food access and security. According to the national food system network Feeding America, at least 14% of Travis County's population is food insecure. Tracy Ayrhart, vice president of strategic insights with the Central Texas Food Bank, believes that this number may now be even higher as food insecurity increases nationally. The new food plan will address this need at a broad level, but the area remains at the mercy of larger factors.

Lisa Barden, executive director of Keep Austin Fed, noted that many Austinites felt the pinch during recent winter storms. "That's why the average Joe should care. We're just one natural disaster away from suddenly not having food access because we don't have any local food connection," she said. Council member Vanessa Fuentes called the new community initiatives a "significant step" toward addressing insecurity, especially in areas across the east side.

Going Forward and Future Plans

Many strategies in the plan are likely to take longer than the five-year window to complete. Challenges such as a lack of money for high-cost land preservation lie ahead. However, officials are exploring funding for a new local food network to help implement the plan. Marty said on November 18 that Austin is building a climate-centered bond package that could cover some of the costs if approved in 2025 or 2026. Council also plans to budget funding for the plan.

Nitza Cuevas, program director for food business collaborative Good Work Austin, said the process has set up those seeking to strengthen the food system. Organizations involved are discussing new ways to collaborate. Barden noted that the strategies were designed to build off each other and may not be noticed right away. For example, setting up a "food hub" for smaller farmers to pool and distribute harvests could have wider-ranging effects on operations and local consumption over time.

If we take these strategies one at a time, we may not necessarily recognize the impact they'll have. But together, they have the potential to transform Central Texas' food system and ensure a more sustainable future for all.

Winter can be a challenging season, but with the right strategies, you can stay warm and comfortable. This guide explores various aspects of winter living, from embracing body hair to finding love and connection.

Uncover the Secrets to Surviving Winter in Boulder

Embrace the Body Hair

Many think that during winter, body hair is hidden beneath layers and thus of no significance. However, science has proven otherwise. Keeping body hair intact helps conserve precious heat, which is crucial for survival in the cold. Imagine a scenario where your eco-warrior roommate refuses to keep the house above 50 degrees. In such a case, having body hair becomes a lifesaver, making you less likely to freeze to death.

It's not just about practicality; having body hair can also make you more attractive. Picture yourself in a winter setting, with that natural warmth radiating from your body. It's a unique charm that sets you apart from the crowd.

Bear Girl Winter

This year, the "it girl" in the outdoors social media landscape was Grazer, also known as Bear 128. She won the wholesome Fat Bear Week contest, and her story has inspired many. Fat isn't just a cute trait; for hibernating bears, it's literally life-saving. And for us humans, it can be a source of comfort and confidence.

As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, it's normal for our bodies to want to hold onto some extra warmth. Whether it's through an extra sweater or a few extra pounds, embracing this natural tendency can make a big difference in how we feel during winter.

Turn to the Wisdom of Wellness Aisle Crones

When it comes to health, the wellness aisle in Natural Grocers is a treasure trove of knowledge. Whether it's a yeast infection, Qi stagnation, or a mystery ailment, these gray goddesses know exactly what to recommend. They not only know which herbs will heal you but also which supplement brands are on sale.

Unlike some health authorities, they are more in tune with our bodies and can provide practical advice. They understand that sometimes, we need a little extra help to stay healthy during the winter months.

Practice Safe Cuddling

Spiritual bros may have some unconventional views, but they are all about the snuggles. If you find yourself in a situation where a spiritual bro offers cuddles, don't be afraid to take him up on it. Snuggling can be a highly effective form of birth control, as long as you leave some room for the Holy Ghost.

For those with uteruses, the thought of a national abortion ban can be a major turnoff. But snuggling can provide a different kind of connection, one that can be just as fulfilling.

Country Roads, Take Me to Pound Town

When it comes to setting the mood, the right playlist is essential. John Denver may seem cheesy, but his open-hearted sentimentality and romantic vulnerability are what make him so special. His music can create a cozy atmosphere that sets the stage for some groovy times.

You can't keep pretending to be seduced by the same old songs. It's time to explore different genres and find the music that speaks to your soul. And with the right tunes, you'll be ready to make some memories with that special someone.

Give Poly a Try

If you've missed the train on Boulder singles, don't worry. There's still the ENM (ethical non-monogamy) train waiting for you. Remember Dan and Elise, the cute couple at the St Julien Hotel bar? They showed you that there are other ways to connect and have fun.

Engaging in adult activities and having deep conversations can lead to a more fulfilling life. While there is a risk of getting hurt, the rewards can be worth it. You might come out of it with new tattoos and a more sophisticated emotional vocabulary.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has taken a significant step forward by announcing a substantial $1.13 billion investment. This funding is aimed at bolstering local and regional food systems, building on the Department's previous efforts in the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement (LFPA) and Local Food for Schools (LFS) programs. The impact of these programs extends far and wide, touching the lives of countless Americans.

Strengthening Local Food Systems for a Better Future

Supporting Emergency Food Providers

This round of funding, announced on October 1, enables states, territories, and federally recognized Tribes to purchase wholesome, locally produced foods. These foods will be distributed within their communities to emergency food providers, schools, and child care centers. By doing so, the USDA is ensuring that those in need have access to nutritious food. For example, in one state, the funds have been used to purchase fresh vegetables from local farmers, which are then distributed to food banks. This not only helps to address food insecurity but also supports local farmers and the local economy.Another example can be seen in a territory where the funds have been allocated to purchase locally produced meat. This meat is then used in school lunch programs, providing students with a healthy and sustainable source of protein. The collaboration between the USDA and local producers has led to the establishment of new supply-chain partnerships, ensuring a steady supply of local food.

Expanding to Child Care Facilities

For the first time, the USDA is expanding its successful collaborations to include child care facilities. Cindy Long, USDA's Deputy Under Secretary for Food, Nutrition and Consumer Services, emphasizes the importance of this expansion. "We are excited to build on these successful collaborations that connect schools and emergency food organizations with nutritious food from local farmers and producers by expanding the model to child care facilities," she says.This expansion means that families can feel good knowing that their kids are eating food that was grown right in their own community. In one child care center, for instance, locally produced fruits and vegetables are incorporated into the daily menu. This not only exposes children to a variety of healthy foods but also supports local agriculture.

Allocating Funds for Different Programs

USDA will allocate up to $471.5 million for states and territories to purchase local, unprocessed, or minimally processed domestic foods for use by schools participating in the National School Lunch and/or School Breakfast Programs. Additionally, $188.6 million will be allocated for use in child care facilities participating in the Child and Adult Care Food Program. Up to $471.5 million will also be allocated for states, territories, and Tribal governments to use in local feeding programs, including food banks and other organizations that reach underserved communities. Of this, $100 million will go to Tribal governments.These allocations demonstrate the USDA's commitment to reaching all communities and ensuring that everyone has access to healthy food. For example, in a school district with a high percentage of low-income students, the funds will be used to purchase local dairy products. This helps to support local dairy farmers and provides students with a nutritious source of calcium.In a tribal community, the funds will be used to purchase traditional foods such as wild rice and berries. This not only preserves tribal cultures but also provides a healthy alternative to processed foods.The LFPA, LFPA Plus, and LFS programs, conceived in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, have already invested over $1 billion into local food purchases. Through these programs, USDA has provided $900 million in funding to 50 states, the District of Columbia, four territories, and 84 Tribal governments. This has sourced foods from over 8,000 local producers, with more than 5,000 identified as underserved. The wholesome food has gone to 7,900 food banks, food pantries, and communities across America.Today's notice of funding will continue this vital work and provide an additional $1.13 billion to support local agriculture, schools, and feeding programs. The USDA's efforts are transforming America's food system, with a greater focus on more resilient local and regional food production, fairer markets for all producers, and ensuring access to safe, healthy, and nutritious food in all communities.To learn more about USDA's initiatives and how you can get involved, visit www.usda.gov.