What is the Deal with Local Food Systems: Or, Local Food Systems from a Regional Science Perspective

Various types of local food systems are being touted as a means of engendering local economic growth and reducing environmental impacts of food production in general (by reducing the so-called food mile). These systems include farmers’ markets, community supported agriculture (CSAs), u-pick operations, and other forms of direct to consumers marketing. Also included are direct linkages between farmers and local restaurants or grocery stores. However, most discussions of local food systems have not received rigorous analysis based on tools of regional science. Using the Porter Diamond as a starting point, we will provide a preliminary critique of the current literature and how regional science may be used in analyzing local food systems. We also include some discussion concerning local food systems as an economic development tool. Also included is an analysis of the literature concerning the potential environmental benefits of local food systems