What is a locavore to do? Federal farm policies deeply impact our personal and community health, as well as our planet. Serious dilemmas are created by the political tension between the goals of the big agrifood industries versus the goals of public health advocates.

These are some of the issues that will be considered by the League of Women Voters of Santa Barbara when we participate in the LWVUS study of federal farm policies. The kickoff will be at the Feb. 19 community forum featuring three different perspectives on agricultural policies

UCSB Professor David Cleveland's field of research trends in the interdisciplinary Environmental Studies Dept is global agriculture. He will speak on the big issues of how agricultural policies deeply impact the health of people and of the planet.

We will also hear from Cathy Fisher, Agricultural Commissioner for Santa Barbara County. Her office administers a number of programs affecting local farming operations. These programs originate from all levels of government, federal, state and local and range from pesticide management to the Williamson Act to certified farmers markets.

John Givens, a longtime local farmer, will give us the perspective of one who has "been there, done that." Givens is actively engaged in the practice of agriculture and is an advocate of sustainable farming and local distribution.

All League forums are free and open to the public. You are encouraged to invite your friends. Bring your own brown bag lunch, and cookies and beverages will be provided. Parking at the center is free during our meeting.

Sincerely,

Joanie Jones and Susan Shank