Methodologies for Identifying Food System Research Priorities: Dispatch from Alaska

Authors

  • Elizabeth Hodges Snyder University of Alaska, Anchorage
  • Shannon Donovan University of Alaska, Anchorage

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5304/jafscd.2013.034.024

Keywords:

Alaska, Food Security, Food Systems

Abstract

Alaska faces unique challenges to sustainable food systems and food security, including extreme climate conditions and geographical remoteness, and yet the state is similar to the "Lower 48" states with respect to many indicators that can be used to characterize the health of our food systems. Due to common concerns over such indicators as obesity rates, food insecurity rates, and recruitment of new farmers, food system stakeholders in Alaska are promoting a resurgence of food systems research and advocacy that is exemplified in the work of the Alaska Food Policy Council (AFPC). Identifying and prioritizing the specific food systems research needs of a state as large and diverse as Alaska is a challenge, but one that is being met with methodical, straightforward approaches. This commentary outlines two examples of recent formal, yet relatively simple, methods for identifying food system research and action priorities, and concludes by sharing some of the latest identified Alaska food system priority research projects, ideas, and needs.

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Author Biographies

Elizabeth Hodges Snyder, University of Alaska, Anchorage

Assistant Professor of Public Health, Department of Health Sciences and Soil Scientist, Department of Health Sciences, College of Health, University of Alaska Anchorage, Anchorage, Alaska.

Shannon Donovan, University of Alaska, Anchorage

Assistant Professor of Environmental Studies, Department of Geography and Environmental Studies, University of Alaska Anchorage, Anchorage, Alaska.

Published

2013-09-17

How to Cite

Snyder, E. H., & Donovan, S. (2013). Methodologies for Identifying Food System Research Priorities: Dispatch from Alaska. Journal of Agriculture, Food Systems, and Community Development, 3(4), 183–199. https://doi.org/10.5304/jafscd.2013.034.024