Urban Farming in Fast-Growing Austin
As cities respond to the climate crisis and incorporate green spaces, urban agriculture can be a sustainable tool for climate resistance.
By Sonali Bhikha
Citizen
December 18, 2023
Excerpt:
Boggy Creek Farm is in East Austin, located about three miles from downtown Austin. This farm focuses on regenerative and organic farming to protect soil health. Boggy Creek acts as a source of fresh produce for the surrounding community and green space for an area being heavily developed. This urban farm will be crucial in reducing the heat island effect in this area and protecting soil and environmental health, all while feeding the community with locally grown foods.
Urban Roots is also an urban farm located in far East Austin. Urban Roots is a non-profit organization where over 95% of the food it grows is donated or sold at a reduced cost. Urban Roots not only provides fresh, locally grown produce to the community in an accessible way, but it also provides a place for youth leaders and community development. Drawing from my experience working at Urban Roots in the Food and Leadership Fellowship, I can attest that this farm is a nourishing hub for the area, promoting community building and bonding. It goes beyond providing food; Urban Roots actively contributes to reconnecting urban areas with nature by offering green space. Like Boggy Creek Farm, Urban Roots also uses regenerative agriculture and other sustainable farming practices, like cover cropping.
