Green in the D—Introducing some of Detroit’s Greatest Green Thumbs
As Detroit’s population is declining, more empty lots are prompting urban agriculture proponents to create more urban farms. It has been estimated that there are more than 3,000 farms and gardens in Detroit generating approximately 5% of the city’s produce.
By Biba Adams
Visit Detroit
March 19, 2022
Excerpt:
D-Town Farm
Rouge Park
D-Town Farm sits on 7-acres in the heart of Detroit’s Rouge Park. One of the most well-known urban farms in the metro area, D-Town farm is dedicated to promoting the value of food security for communities that have been historically disenfranchised and subjected to food deserts.
The farm also features beekeeping, solar energy, and large-scale composting.
Earthworks Urban Farm
Earthworks is 2.5 acres of unique edible flowers many of which aren’t commonly found in the U.S. as well as a diverse array of fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Operated by the Capuchin friars, their products are sold via the Grown in Detroit co-op and are served to thousands of disadvantaged Detroiters who visit the Capuchin Soup Kitchen annually.
Oakland Avenue Urban Farm
Located in the historic North End, Oakland Avenue Urban Farm is a program of North End Christian Community Development Corporation, is a non-profit,community-base organization dedicated to cultivating healthy foods, sustainable economies, and active cultural environments.
Oakland Avenue is a part of the Shop Detroit Farms which is a collaborative network of Detroit growers and producers working to provide food that is environmentally and socially just. According to their website, the organization “uplifts and celebrates black leadership, black self-determination, and black joy.”
