Is urban farming just the new big trend or is it an answer to our food crisis in places now labeled as "food deserts"?

Let's explore this more…

What is an Urban Farm?

Technically speaking, urban farming is growing or producing food in a city, town or heavily populated location. Urban farms create healthy options close to people that otherwise might not have easy access to grocery stores or markets. Why aren't these everywhere, right?
 

Urban farming can often be mistaken for community gardening or subsistence farming--which is growing food for personal consumption or to share with your community. An urban farm on the other hand, like other businesses, sells their product. Although it is not a free option, urban farms can offer a local and healthy produce option some cities might not get at a price that can make it manageable to go to for everyday needs.

Urban agriculture has a variety of benefits to the communities they are in as well. These benefits are environmental, economic and social because urban farms help by reducing transportation costs, reduce heavy rain runoff and lead to better air quality. Also, urban farming isn't only limited to veggies and fruit, as several farms have animal and livestock options such as chickens, fish, goats, and honey bees. Yum, honey!

It is critical for schools to start integrating an AFNR (Agriculture Farming Natural Resources) curriculum at an early age to help teach and foster an appreciation for Urban Farming in the areas hit hardest by food deserts. Providing healthy, fresh food options for everyone. Educating our youth will help to ensure that healthy food options are available to all!