On January 24, 2026, the Willits community gathered at the Little Lake Grange to tackle food security issues. This café-style meeting featured eight tables, each hosted by a facilitator, allowing participants to discuss various topics aimed at improving sustainable food access. Over 30 local residents took part, brainstorming ways to ensure everyone in Mendocino County has enough to eat.
Each session lasted 25 minutes before attendees switched tables, aiming to build a large collection of ideas. The highlights included suggestions for a mobile farmers market to assist those unable to reach current locations, especially the elderly or disabled. Another initiative proposed sharing surplus food and resources among community members, making it easier for everyone to access what they need.
Mayor Tom Allman led the table focused on emergency food preparedness. He emphasized the need for water, fuel, and clear communication during crises. He proposed regular disaster preparedness articles in local media and community hubs where residents can gather to stay connected. Additionally, he mentioned the Willits Amateur Radio Society, which offers training in ham radio use, vital for communication when other systems fail.
Local farmer Mike Adams and his colleague Ryan FarPorte discussed farming barriers like land and water access. FarPorte raised an important question: are residents willing to support a local market for nutrient-dense foods? He highlighted the need for local demand, suggesting that businesses like restaurants and schools should step up to purchase food from local farmers.
Naturopath Claudia Wenning focused on nutrition, stressing that healthy food should be accessible and varied. She proposed sharing recipes and hosting cooking demos to educate the community on healthy eating. Wenning also pointed out the importance of teaching children where their food comes from, emphasizing that it grows in fields, not on grocery store shelves. “Food has a season,” she remarked, urging for a better understanding of local agricultural cycles.
There’s growing recognition of food security’s importance. Recent studies show that nearly 10% of households in California face food insecurity. Initiatives like these community discussions are vital in creating a robust local food system. By working together, residents can strengthen their food safety nets and support local farmers.
The meeting concluded with insights from all tables, showcasing a unified desire for better food security across Willits and Mendocino County. The next seed exchange at the Grange is scheduled for February 22, allowing residents to grow their own food and foster community connections.
As communities like Willits innovate and collaborate, they pave the way for sustainable food practices that can serve as a model for others facing similar challenges.
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food insecurity,Little Lake Grange,Willits
