Food Security Task Force Releases Findings, Recommendations, and FEED DSM Initiative

The Des Moines Food Security Task Force has released its final report following an extensive eight-month initiative aimed at tackling food insecurity through urban agriculture. Key recommendations include broadening the definitions of urban agricultural practices and easing restrictions that currently hinder local food production. The Task Force also advocates for two resolutions: one to set local food production goals and another to safeguard the public's right to forage on city lands. Central to these efforts is the newly launched Food Equity and Education for Des Moines (FEED DSM), an online platform designed to connect residents with essential resources for growing food and raising animals. FEED DSM focuses on five areas critical to urban agriculture, including land access and raising livestock, and will evolve to address additional food security challenges.

The City Council is now tasked with assessing the feasibility of these recommendations, emphasizing a commitment to improving food access for all residents. Councilman Carl Voss has expressed satisfaction with the Task Force's progress, highlighting the importance of community engagement in food production. Ultimately, these initiatives reflect a concerted effort to strengthen food security and foster sustainable practices within Des Moines.