Urban farm learning lab providing access to fresh, healthy food options

The Cornell Cooperative Extension Oneida Urban Farm Learning Lab in New York provides educational programming and resources to aspiring farmers and growers who face small business startup barriers within urban communities. The program addresses increasing interest in urban farming in the cities of Utica and Rome. It helps community members overcome challenges such as space, knowledge, experience and money by providing hands-on training in the areas of production, market and development.

Community members are taught how to plant, maintain and harvest produce. They are encouraged to distribute their excess produce evenly among participants. One of the goals of the program is to provide fresh produce to areas that are food deserts located directly in urban centers. Other program objectives include providing community events that highlight growers, the learning lab and the lab’s impact on communities. The program is also working to engage youth in growing and learning job skills and the basics of food systems entrepreneurship.

Overall, the lab provides value to the public by promoting sustainable and equitable urban agriculture and improving access to fresh and healthy food options. It also provides valuable education and job skills training to community members.

Project supported by Smith-Lever funds.