Updates were given about the Iowa Food Policy Council and the China model of a research institute for policy creation. Reports were give by Policy Group, the Connections Group, and about the creation of a movie. After each report, participants identified areas that they like from the group and questions for the group. By the end of the workshop, the energy focused on expanding the Policy Institute idea to an Institute for Land, Food and People. The process could serve as a think tank, bringing groups together to address overlapping issues, perhaps selecting issues that members might address under their own structure.
Agricultural policy needs to work with partners toward sustainable practices.
Participation should be diverse, rewarding direct hands-on participants. There is a great need for national publicity through the popular press. Connections Group Policy needs to be connected to and drive by society. Local connections are paramount. Model should be driven by a vision, based on values, with recognition of barriers.