1. It Makes Financial Sense These days most cities are looking to make cuts to solve budget woes. Smart cities, looking to save a few dollars might look at instituting a community garden program. Not only can a community garden program help a city save money on maintenance costs, it could also generate revenue by charging small user fees. With space at a premium in many cities, people are looking for a place to grow. 2. City Beautification There are many urban spaces that are not designated as parks, but could use some sprucing up. Why not offer these spaces to local residents to garden? Most gardeners take pride in their work, and green foliage and different plants can add variety to the city landscape. These public spaces might also inspire nearby neighbours to take a more active role in making improvements to their property. Communities could also create friendly contests and attract more visitors to cities! 3. Urban Food Source Community gardens can represent an important food source for the city. With square foot and SPIN gardening, you can grow a lot in a little space. Urban areas have an opportunity to become a little more self-reliant for their food supply and residents have an opportunity to enjoy fresh local produce!  Community Garden located in Toronto, Ontario. Photo Credit: Ryan Arndt 4. Recreation for Residents Cities and other levels of government often run recreation programs for various populations. Gardening is an activity that is popular with people from all ages and demographic backgrounds. Allowing people to have the opportunity to participate in gardening not only improves their overall health with physical activity, but with delicious and nutritious food. 5. Public Education Many children and an alarming number of adults have little to no knowledge of where food comes from or how fresh vegetables and fruit should taste. Community gardens allow people in the surrounding areas to learn more about plants and how they grow. Walking by a community garden on the way to school or work provides people with an educational opportunity at their doorstep. Why not involve schools and provide opportunities to enrich the science and health curriculum. 6. Reduced Carbon Foot Print Local produce is increasingly hard to find in cities. An increased supply of local food will reduce our carbon footprint. Local food means that produce and fruit does not have to be shipped from what is often thousands of miles away. Not to mention the fact that these plants will have an impact on improving air quality where it is most needed. Have your say: CommentsBentley Ball 01/11/2012 20:21
I don't mind the idea of a co-ordinator, butI would hate to see a good idea become bogged down with red tape or to see marginalised people who would otherwise be best served by the ready availability of gardenning space be denied access because they didn't understand how to navigate their way through the process. 01/17/2012 05:17
We are doing it in South Bend Indiana with a unique Twist . Education , Free Food For Everyone , and Community Building . With the blessing and support of the city . Checkout out , www.theunitygardens.blogspot.com The Happy Homesteader 01/17/2012 07:07
@ Bentley --- I love your ideas regarding water management for gardens! Lauren 01/17/2012 07:52
At the very least, the soil MUST be tested for lead and heavy metals before edible gardening is allowed. Lead and heavy metal contamination is prevalent in cities, and many plants are able to incorporate these poisons into their fruit. 01/22/2012 07:41
I am involved in a Community Garden in an urban neighborhood, in New Orleans, La. It has been such a learning experience. It has allowed us to reach out to the community. There have been some negative experiences, but if you focus on the Community part- it is amazing! 04/28/2012 04:36
It allows me to take photos and wirelessly send them to all of our devices and computers in seconds. Leave a Reply | About this BlogThe adventures and challenges of a modern day farmer as he endeavours to homestead his way through life. ArchivesFebruary 2012 CategoriesAll |
RSS Feed