Local Food Council to support growth in sector

Government is looking for a ross-section of members to represent Alberta’s billion-dollar local food industry.

Aplications are now open for Alberta’s first ever Local Food Council.

The aim of the council will be to provide recommendations on provincial policies, programs, pilot projects or initiatives to support the continued growth and sustainability of Alberta’s local food sector.

Recruiting a Local Food Council is the first step in implementing the Supporting Alberta's Local Food Sector Act that was passed on May 30.

“Our government is stepping up to show support for this industry and the people who put food on our table. The Supporting Alberta’s Local Food Sector Act and our new Local Food Council will give a voice to this growing industry by helping it find new markets, create new jobs and further diversify the provincial economy," explains Oneil Carlier, Minister of Agriculture and Forestry.

The council will have broad representation from Alberta’s local food sector across the province, including small producers and processors and those with specialized and academic knowledge, and would report to the minister within one year. Members will be selected from a public recruitment process, which is now open on the Alberta public agency board opportunities website. Applications close July 12.