Strengthening the Regional Food Network in a Global Economy SFU MORRIS J. WOSK CENTRE FOR DIALOGUE

A thriving regional food network can provide jobs, security, public health benefits, and food for local and export markets. Its success is dependant on strong and resilient linkages between all parts of the supply chain. What are the barriers to success? How do we overcome them? What is the impact of the global economy? What is the role of the region? Dear Colleague: On behalf of the Metro Vancouver Board of Directors, and in co-operation with the Vancouver Board of Trade, I cordially invite you to the next of the Future of the Region Sustainability Dialogues. Building on the success of the 2006-2009 Future of the Region Sustainability Dialogue Series, Metro Vancouver is once again partnering with Chambers of Commerce and Boards of Trade across the region to launch an expanded program of dialogues for 2010. more on the dialogues… Intended to help decision makers shape the future of the region by presenting a range of views to challenge and stimulate fresh thought on regional issues, the dialogues are a key outreach component of Metro Vancouver’s Sustainable Region Initiative (SRI). While Metro Vancouver has earned its reputation as one of the most livable places in the world, now, as we shift our focus to the longer term sustainability of our region, some of the challenges we face and opportunities available to us are crying out for attention. New and innovative approaches to regional issues and attention to the growing impacts and opportunities of globalization are fundamental if we are to sustain those things that make our region special. Therefore, your opinions and participation at these sessions are vitally welcome and important. Sincerely, Lois E. Jackson Chair, Metro Vancouver Board of Directors

Strengthening the Regional Food Network in a Global Economy – SFU MORRIS J. WOSK CENTRE FOR DIALOGUE Tues, April 13th 11:30AM to 2:00PM (11:30 lunch) SFU Morris J. Wosk Centre for Dialogue 580 West Hastings, Vancouver Presenters: Special Guest Erik Assadourian Senior Researcher, The Worldwatch Institute Brent Warner Co-ordinator, Canadian Agritourism Working Group, and formerly Executive Director, Farmers Markets Canada Allen Langdon Vice-President, Western Canada, Canadian Council of Grocery Distributors Mark Holland Principal and Co-founder, HB Lanarc Consultants Ltd. Wendy Holm Agrologist, Resource Economist and Journalist