Urban Agriculture

The toolkit identifies and describes technical and financial resources developed by urban farmers, federal and city government agencies, and local organizations that address considerations for new urban farmers. Key resources include: Business Planning/Risk Management; Land Access; Soil Quality; Water Access/Use; Accessing Capital and Financing; Infrastructure; Production Strategies; Market Development; Training and Mentoring; and Safety and Security.

Focuses on brownfield redevelopment for urban agriculture projects. Outlines steps for starting a project; links to success stories and current urban agriculture projects; identifies information and resources available from federal agencies and non-governmental organizations; posts frequent questions and answers; and identifies presentations and other educational materials.

What is urban farming? Find information on starting an urban farm, business management, agricultural production, food safety, laws and regulations, community and school gardens, and more.

"This report provides an overview of urban agriculture and local food system resources and practices across the United States and parts of Canada, with a primary emphasis on providing resources that can encourage and support urban agriculture in Missouri’s metropolitan areas." The Urban Agriculture project Website includes a searchable database of urban agriculture resources, articles, educational information, and zoning ordinances in the U.S. and Canada.

This guide informs urban farmers about farming in or near urban centers, raising urban livestock, urban crop production, business planning and financing, marketing, codes and regulations, and much more. It identifies subject experts, Extension resources, factsheets, and topical publications. PDF also available.

The Handbook provides guidance for organizations or communities interested in developing an urban farm on vacant sites or cleaned brownfields. It instructs on writing a business plan and developing marketing, operating and financial strategies. Worksheets are provided.

Surveys, links and guides including the Urban Soil Primer - an introduction to urban soils for homeowners and renters, local planning boards, property managers, students and educators.

International perspectives on urban food security and nutrition, urban and periurban food production and land tenure, food marketing and distribution and more.

Global resource center initiated by the international Support Group on Urban Agriculture. Site includes a comprehensive bibliography, contacts and experts, links, publications, UA Magazine and a discussion group.

Overview of the many types of urban agriculture in the United States and their impact on community food security, challenges facing urban agriculture and key policy changes that can further expand the effectiveness of urban agriculture. A list of contacts and resources is included.