Organizers of the Growing Local Foods Summit say stakeholders in the state's local food system will discuss opportunities for production and sales, elimination of gaps in service, and benefits of developing a strong, sustainable system.

"The producers, processors, distributors and purchasers of locally grown fruits, vegetables, meats and specialty products make-up West Virginia's local food system. The purpose of this event is to learn how we can sell more locally produced items within our own food system which will benefit everyone involved and keep the dollars in our communities," said Pam Curry, executive director of the Charleston-based Center for Economic Options.

Allen Arnold, executive director of the Collaborative for a 21st Century Appalachia, said purchasing directly from local farmers and producers helps grow the state's economy. It also ensures fresher, tastier and more nutritious food for consumers.

The day-long conference, which begins at 10 a.m., will bring together representatives from local restaurants and grocery stores to institutional buyers like colleges, school systems and federal agencies.

Keynote speaker Brian Snyder, executive director of the Pennsylvania Association of Sustainable Agriculture, will discuss trends and strategies that are working in other areas of the country.

Networking sessions have been specifically designed to link producers and purchasers to help develop connections.

"Across the nation, universities, hospitals, and other institutions are finding ways to offer local foods, and interest in farmer's markets is soaring," said Marten Jenkins, president of the Natural Capital Investment Fund. "Additionally jobs in distribution, aggregation and marketing also are being created. We want to grow West Virginia's food system so we can all reap the benefits of a vibrant local food economy."

Sponsors for the event include the West Virginia University Extension Service, the West Virginia Department of Agriculture and the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation.

For information, e-mail Growing Local Foods at growinglocalfoods@browncomm.com.