Growing a Sustainable Farm and Food System in an Urban Edge County

[irishbobcat]

Growing a Sustainable Farm and Food System in an Urban Edge County

Burlington County, New Jersey is a strong agricultural area in the shadow of Philadelphia whose farms are threatened by development and economic pressures. American Farmland Trust is assisting the county's farmland preservation program in turning the challenges of high land values and urban-rural conflicts into opportunities for a local farm and food system. First step: transforming a dairy farm into a community agricultural center that includes a farmers market, community supported agriculture farm, community gardens and protected farmland acreage leased to a local sheep farmer. Additionally, discussions are underway for low-income residents and seniors to have access to the farmers market through a token payment plan and farm-friendly ordinances have been drafted for use by townships.


Dennis Spisak
Mahoning Valley Greens
Ohio Green Party

www.ohiogreens.org
www.votespisak.org/thinkgreen/