Description
In conjunction with the updated Comprehensive Plan and Development Code update underway, there is an opportunity to reduce restrictions on urban agriculture to promote more opportunity for locally produced food. In addition, the city can explore and encourage organized Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) operations that connect community residents to locally produced food and encourage gathering and connections within the community. At the individual level, raising awareness about and promoting home gardens through education and events has the potential to increase local food production and health through gardening activities. Community gardens will also be included in the Parks, Recreation and Library Plan.
Components
- Align with Comprehensive Plan and Development Code updates to streamline processes and promote opportunities for year-round urban agriculture, such as greenhouses, hoop houses and residential food sales.
- Identify existing urban agriculture organizations, farmer’s markets and vendors that accept Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Double Up Food Bucks as partners.
- Potentially partner with the Adam’s County Extension Office to leverage existing curriculum, messaging, materials and Master Gardner program to promote home gardening.
- Identify local CSA operations through Local Harvest or other organizations and partner to promote education and availability throughout the city.
- Publicly recognize local food producers and home gardeners.
- Pilot a partnership with Growing Home who will provide volunteers at a community garden at Irving Street to provide their food pantry with fresh produce