Farming: An Urban Hobby?
Who says we can only farm in rural areas? Despite the obvious challenges of urban farming, community gardens are popping up in parks, vacant lots, and even on rooftops across the nation.
And with good reason. While it may be difficult to find space, fertile soil, and even people interested in the cause, the benefits are endless. Researchers have found that urban farming can foster good health and community involvement, while being easier on the wallet. In fact, every $1 invested in community garden results in $6 of vegetables.
Yet saving money is just the beginning. Urban farming increases the sustainability of our cities, promotes concern for the environment, and fosters community involvement. Considering that most urbanites hardly even know their next-door neighbors, we certainly can’t expect to always know who produces our food. Urban farming, however, can alleviate both problems simultaneously.
In addition to the social and environmental benefits, growing our own food has positive effects on our health. And I don’t just mean physical health. Research has also shown that horticulture can lead to better mental health. Working with plants has even been proven to reduce stress, blood pressure, and muscle tension.
Urban Peak, a non-profit organization, is using such benefits to help the homeless youth of Denver. The organization provides young adults with food, shelter, and now, the advantages of urban gardening. “I think there’s a sense of accomplishment in the garden…This will be a sense of accomplishment that they can translate into other areas of their life like school or looking for a job,” states Anne Harris, member of Urban Peak. Though the long term benefits have yet to be determined, one thing is clear…Such feelings of accomplishment and involvement cannot be obtained at a McDonald’s or Burger King.
Don’t get me wrong; of course it’s nice to have access to fast food and delivery at any hour of the night. However, who’s to say that our favorite cities can’t offer both convenience and sustainability? There may be a certain satisfaction in consuming that pizza slice at 4am. Yet, maybe it’s time to experience the pride that comes along with consuming something we’ve cultivated ourselves.
The word urban is a politically correct term for slum,projects,hood,inner city, ect. One of the major problems of the urban communities majority melanated americans, is the health.The older generations i getting older and dying off, not opening their doors or churches to young people who have 50,000 more challenges to face in this in your face demanding society.
I have been urban Gardening in Carmel St. Garden,New Haven,CT. for some time now, and the community is excited to see this rundown lot become a work of agriculture art.Some shy away, but for the most part I look forward to seeing more community participation.Financial workships, organic gardening workshops,good health workshops, all of the above.