Marine StationCommunity - University Research for Recovery Alliance
Community Food Security
The overall goal of this component is to explore the need and capacity for fisheries to contribute to sustainable community food systems, and to develop collaborative community relationships to help inform social and policy change related to local coastal food systems.
In the summer of 2009, a community food security assessment was undertaken to compile baseline data about food security in the region, and identify community strengths and weaknesses related to local food systems. The assessment integrates information from a variety of sources, and focused on four main questions:
- How does the regional context (e.g. demographic trends, economic and social policies, environmental resources, etc.) impact community food security?
- What are the existing food resources in the region? (e.g. food retail outlets, restaurants; community food resources such as community kitchens, gardens, and pastures; "alternative" food networks such as farmers' markets, fish markets; food production resources such as fisheries, farms, and wild foods)
- Is food available and affordable to local residents?
- What are the main community assets/strengths and gaps related to food security?
Funded by a Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council fellowship and the Industrial Research and Innovation Fund.
Researchers and Partners
Student:
Kristen Lowitt, Interdisciplinary Ph.D. Candidate
Materials
A Community Food Security Assessment of the Bonne Bay Region
A report prepared by Kristen Lowitt, PhD Candidate, Interdisciplinary Studies, Memorial University of Newfoundland.
A slideshow presenting some key concepts
A report prepared by Kristen Lowitt, PhD Candidate, Interdisciplinary Studies, Memorial University of Newfoundland. [Powerpoint]
Examining the foundation for stronger fisheries-tourism synergies and increased local seafood consumption in the Bonne Bay region of Newfoundland
A report prepared by Kristen Lowitt, PhD Candidate, Interdisciplinary Studies, Memorial University of Newfoundland.
Fisheries-Tourism in Bonne Bay - Summary Report
A summary report prepared for the CURRA by Kristen Lowitt, PhD Candidate, Interdisciplinary Studies, Memorial University of Newfoundland.
Related
"Off the Hook" Community Supported Fishery
Off the Hook, Atlantic Canada's first Community Supported Fishery, connects a co-operative of small-scale, groundfish bottom-hook-and-line fishermen from the Bay of Fundy to subscribing customers in and around Halifax, Nova Scotia.
CBC Interview with Kristen Lowitt
CBC's West Coast Morning Show interviews Kristen Lowitt about food choices on the West Coast, and the possibility of linking the fishery and tourism together.
Photos
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