Landon Charlo, Ph.D.

Food Systems Faculty

School of the Environment

Assistant Professor

Summary:

The Washington State University Native American Food Systems Program (WSU NAFSP) through extension, research, community engagement and partnering with Tribal communities seeks to bolster cultural resilience and improve the health and well-being of Tribal members. WSU NAFSP seeks to preserve and enhance the traditional food knowledge and practices of Washington State Tribes and support access to healthy foods by promoting food sovereignty and helping Indigenous communities reclaim and protect their ecosystems.

Health and Wellbeing:

Northwest Indigenous populations experience disproportionately high rates of diet-related preventable diseases. Indigenous food systems prioritize sustainable practices, respecting ecosystems and natural resources. Traditional diets consist of nutrient-rich foods adapted to local environments. Advancing Indigenous food sovereignty improves the availability of nutritious, culturally appropriate foods, increasing positive health outcomes and promoting overall well-being.

Future Activities:

1) Plan listening sessions, focus groups and retreats to learn more about Tribal values and needs concerning traditional foods revitalization, growing healthy foods, and tribal food and agriculture business development.

2) Partner with organizations already doing food sovereignty / food system work in the Pacific Northwest such as Tahoma Peaks Solutions and the Intertribal Agricultural Council.

3) Develop community-specific definitions of food sovereignty.

4) Build educational resources and connect Tribal entrepreneurs in food and agriculture to grant funding opportunities.