Local Food for Local People: Promoting food democracy in Lumpkin County, GA

Abstract

The Appalachian Teaching Project at the University of North Georgia partnered with the Dahlonega Farmer's Market to help the farmer's market create a better regional food system in Lumpkin County. Research revealed, Georgia ranks fortieth on the Locavore index, a scale for ranking commitment to local food, measured by the number of farmer's markets, farm to school programs, community supported agriculture programs (CSAs) and food hubs in each state. Lumpkin has one farmer’s market and two CSAs. By partnering with the Dahlonega Farmer's Market and using broadside posters made by the printing press class, the Appalachian Teaching project hopes to bring local food to Lumpkin County people.

Through a collaborative effort of several classes Local Food to Local People was born. Student researchers surveyed farmer’s market visitors and UNG students to gauge attendance at the Dahlonega Farmer's Market. Surveys revealed only one fourth had attended at least once and the most common reason for not going was a lack of information. Many students did not know the specifics of the farmer's market and others did not know the purpose. One response was "I am not a farmer so I do not need to go."

Information was compiled and shared with the Printing Press class for them to use in the creation of broadsides reminiscent of those used in World War II. The broadsides will appeal to wide audiences across generational and societal lines. By blasting campus with broadsides we hope to attract more students to the farmer's market.