living waters of larimer urban ag report
DESCRIPTION
Apples on the avenue: A report on progress & potential for urban agriculture in Larimer was prepared by Living Waters of Larimer, a project of the Kingsley Association. In 2011, the Larimer community created the region’s first Ecodistrict plan simultaneous to the Larimer Vision Plan. Living Waters advances those goals by aligning placemaking, performance, and policy for artful green infrastructure. Living Waters of Larimer is a community development project that will demonstrate how green infrastructure can be integrated into the cultural life, urban spaces, and economic systems of the Larimer community. The project is focused on four areas in Larimer that are at various stages in the redevelopment process, including a large single parcel redevelopment project, a scattered site development project, vacant parcels, and publicly owned right-of-way areas.TRANSCRIPT
APPLES ON THE AVENUEA REPORT ON PROGRESS & POTENTIAL FOR URBAN AGRICULTURE IN LARIMERPREPARED BY LIVING WATERS OF LARIMERA PROJECT OF THE KINGSLEY ASSOCIATION
SEPTEMBER 2015
APPLES ON THE AVENUEA REPORT ON PROGRESS & POTENTIAL FOR URBAN AGRICULTURE IN LARIMERPREPARED BY LIVING WATERS OF LARIMERSEPTEMBER 2015
A PROJECT OFThe Kingsley Association, the Larimer Green Team,
and the Larimer Consensus Group
SUPPORTED BYThe Heinz Endowments
Copyright © 2015Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
CONTRIBUTING TEAM
ABOUT LIVING WATERS OF LARIMER
In 2011, the Larimer community created the region’s first Ecodistrict plan simultaneous to the Larimer Vision Plan. Living Waters advances those goals by aligning placemaking, performance, and policy for artful green infrastructure.
Living Waters of Larimer is a community development project that will demonstrate how green infrastructure can be integrated into the cultural life, urban spaces, and economic systems of the Larimer community.
The project goals are to:+ Raise community capacity to advocate for wise long term rainwater
management.+ Activate the community through place-based rainwater
demonstration projects.+ Define best practices for urban placemaking with high performing
rainwater systems in different scales of development.
The project is focused on four areas in Larimer that are at various stages in the redevelopment process, including a large single parcel redevelopment project, a scattered site development project, vacant parcels, and publicly owned right-of-way areas.
Betsy DamonMatt GrahamRobert GermanyDaniel KleinBetty Lane
Yusef AliBob BinghamLaura BrocklebankFred BrownAshley Cox
Ian LipskyMikana MaedaDa’Shan MalloyChristine MondorJohn Stevens
evolveEApowered by
URBAN AG MOVING FORWARD
BACKGROUNDHISTORY & MARKET
IDENTIFYING ASSETS FOOD SYSTEMS
SITE DATA DEFINING AN AG ZONE
BUSINESS MODELS FARMS & GARDENS
RESOURCES
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contents
It is early morning on a cool spring morning and the Village Green gardens are quiet, except for a chorus of birds and a few early travelers on East Liberty Boulevard. Larimer residents will be out later in the day to turn over their garden beds, but one early gardener offers us handfuls of healthy cilantro that has reseeded from last season. The Green is a labor of love for a core group of gardeners from Larimer and other nearby communities. Each gardener has their own reasons for cultivating a raised bed--food, friendship, or perhaps a chance to make change. Some of the returns can be predicted, other benefits are pleasant surprises.
It is hard to say when the idea of urban agriculture germinated in the community. It appears in the Vision Plan, the ecodistrict plan, CMU student work, and through numerous partnerships with organizations like Grow Pittsburgh, Gtech and others. In this sense, Larimer’s conversations are part of a regional and national movement to bring agricultural production into the city. Like many communities, Larimer faces
challenge of getting to scale to create a viable enterprise that can be economically as well as environmentally sustainable.
Moving from a raised bed to an ag business requires physical and human resources. During the course of the Living Waters of Larimer project, many different urban ag ideas came from the community and the team, including an irrigation well and a native plant nursery and training facility for green infrastructure. Both these ideas need to be nested within a broader community strategy and leadership on urban agriculture.
This report, created as part of the Living Waters of Larimer project, is intended to help advance Larimer’s ongoing efforts to create a community focused model for urban agriculture.
It is within this context that Living Waters hopes to contribute ideas on how to artfully integrate water and community serving urban agriculture.
URBAN AG LARIMER’S JOURNEYUrban agriculture has a long history in Larimer, from carp ponds to backyard gardens that fed families. The community has come together to write the next chapter for growth.
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Urban apple trees in Larimer.
URBAN AG MOVING FORWARD IN LARIMERHow do we develop scenarios that reflect priorities of the community + the most viable business practices?
Urban agriculture is appealing because it connects people to the land and to each other. By its very nature it is a part of the community experience, even for those who are not directly involved. For this reason, urban agricultural can be transformational to a community, not simply transactional.
Robust community engagement is needed to identify and build support around a viable model. To be successful, the community plan needs to identify WHAT model of urban agriculture most meets the community’s aspirations, WHERE urban ag could leverage land and water resources, and HOW the community might create or invite a long term, sustainable agricultural business into the community.
This process has already begun. As part of the LWOL urban ag investigation, a small charrette was organized with the Larimer Consensus Group’s Green Team to share the preliminary analyses and to discuss desirable models that would meet community goals. The results of this initial engagement are in the appendix.
Urban ag can begin with an individual’s passionate vision or through long and patient community progress. Larimer has the opportunity to develop in both ways if it can create a clear vision that will invite and align existing and yet-to-be-discovered entrepreneurs.
Entrepreneurs need community support, access to resources, and would benefit from being part of a cluster of aligned businesses. A few key businesses can attract others and add another dimension to Larimer’s progressive ambitions.
At the community event Emmet Miles shared his plans for a farm modeled on Will Allen’s sustainable food production facilities in Milwaukee and Chicago.
What model of urban ag most appeals to the community’s aspirations?
WHAT
+
+ WHERE
HOW
COMMUNITY SERVING URBAN AGRICUTLURE
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Where is it located? How do we best organize land & water resources?
How do we create or invite a self sustaining enterprise?
A strong vision, paired with long term commitment, will yield success.
Understanding the what, where and how of urban ag in Larimer will require a robust and intentional process over a period of years.
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URBAN AG MOVING FORWARD IN LARIMERAn urban ag enterprise, much like a start up business, will have three phases of development.
ORGANIZATIONAL READINESS
COMMUNITY SUPPORT
ENTREPRENEURIAL SUPPORT
DEVELOP A VISION STATEMENT AND DEFINITION OF SUCCESSURBAN AG WILL TRANSFORM LARIMER BY...”URBAN AG WOULD CONTRIBUTE TO LARIMER BEING A GREAT PLACE TO LIVE AND WORK BECAUSE...
ENCOURAGE ENGAGEMENT. FAMILIARIZE THE COMMUNITY WITH ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES THAT COULD ARISE FROM AN URBAN AG ENTERPRISE
BENCHMARK NATIONAL AND REGIONAL ENTITIES TO FIND IN DEPTH INFORMATION ON DESIRABLE MODELS”
CREATE A TIGER TEAM. FORM A SHORT TERM GROUP TO LEAD THE PROCESS. THIS TEAM WILL ADVOCATE FOR AND REPRESENT THE PROJECT TO THE COMMUNITY, DEVELOPERS, STAKEHOLDERS, FUNDERS, ETC. THIS GROUP MAY EVENTUALLY AUTHORIZE EXECUTE LEGAL AND FINANCIAL ARRANGEMENTS ON BEHALF OF THE PROJECT.
HARNESS SUPPORT SERVICES. DEVELOP ENTREPRENEURIAL SUPPORT RESOURCES WHO MIGHT BE OF ASSISTANCE TO THE BUSINESS(ES) THAT RUNS THE URBAN AG. (START UP ASSISTANCE, SEED FUNDING, TAX BREAKS, TECHNICAL EXPERTS, ETC.)
AMPLIFY THE BUZZ. ACTIVATE A SUPPORT NETWORK TO RALLY AROUND YOUR IDEAS AND TO COMMIT TO HELPING FUTURE COMMUNITY ENTERPRISES. SPREAD THE WORD AND BUILD BUZZ TO ATTRACT FUTURE BUSINESSES.
ONE :: PREPARE THE SEEDBuild support + organize your resources
THIS TAKES TIME AND COMMITMENT! SET MILESTONES AND/OR TIME EXPECTATIONS FOR THOSE ON THE TIGER TEAM.
PURSUE SEED GRANTS AND DEVELOPMENT FUNDS FOR EARLY EFFORTS.
SECURE FUNDING TO VISIT THE MODELS. INVITE KEY STAKEHOLDERS TO KICK THE TIRES AND BUILD ENTHUSIASM.
““
TWO :: PLANT AND CULTIVATEDevelop the facility and the business plan
PRINCIPLE
THREE :: HARVEST THE FRUITS OF YOUR LABORCreate stability as businesses and organizations move beyond the start up phase.
PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT
EXECUTE LAND CONTROL & OPEN FOR BUSINESS!!
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENTMONITOR DEVELOPMENT DYNAMICS AND LAND CONTROL WITHIN THE COMMUNITY. BE THE VOICE IN COMMUNITY CONVERSATIONS REPRESENTING URBAN AG.
ENGAGE ADJACENT NEIGHBORS TO HEAR CONCERNS AND ENCOURAGE PARTICIPATION IN LONG TERM VISION
CREATE LEGAL ENTITY AND MECHANISMS FOR LONG TERM LAND ACQUISITION OR CONTROL
CREATE A RECRUITING PROCESS. ORGANIZE A REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) THAT OUTLINES COMMUNITY VISION (ECONOMIC, ECOLOGICAL, AND EQUITABLE VISIONS), ASSETS (LAND, FINANCIAL AND TECHNICAL RESOURCES) AND OTHER INCENTIVES TO INVITE ENTREPRENEURS TO TEST THEIR MODELS IN LARIMER.
INVITE A CLUSTER OF BUSINESSES. INVITE A KEYSTONE BUSINESS OR A CLUSTER OF RELATED BUSINESSES THAT COULD SHARE STAFF, RESOURCES, AND IDEAS AND COMARKETING RESOURCES. A CRITICAL NUMBER OF AG RELATED BUSINESS WILL HELP SOLIDIFY THE IDENTITY AND PROVIDE REAL BENEFIT TO THE BUSINESSES.
RESHAPE THE TIGER TEAM. ORGANIZE THE CORE COMMUNITY TEAM TO ASSIST WITH ONGOING SUPPORT AND MAINTENANCE OF THE BUSINESS AND MEANINGFUL COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT.
use water related
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plan for organization
& physical change
solve more than one
problem at a time
PRINCIPLE PRINCIPLE PRINCIPLE
PREPARE FOR CHANGE. URBAN AG ENTERPRISES HAVE TO EVOLVE RAPIDLY AS THE COMMUNITY CHANGES. DEVELOP WITH LONG TERM STABILITY IN MIND.
SHARE THE STORY. MEASURE YOUR OUTCOMES AND SHARE VICTORIES AS WELL AS LESSONS LEARNED.
URBAN AG MOVING FORWARD IN LARIMERThere are a few water related ideas that have been developing parallel to the exploration of urban ag and could be integrated into any business model.
Through the course of the Living Waters of Larimer project, two water related ideas have floated to the top and could assist in start up and long term viability of any urban agriculture proposal. These include The Well and a Plant Nursery for green infrastructure.
The Well: A Water Place to GatherThe Well is a gathering place and a physical symbol of the Larimer Community’s vision of eco-centered redevelopment. With the cistern as its centerpiece, The Well is part of a larger implementation strategy outlined in Larimer’s Vision Plan where harvested rainwater is reintegrated into nearby businesses, green features, and urban agriculture.
The proposal featured a cistern sculpture surrounded by water-energy features that are activated by play and exercise equipment. The design process for The Well is in collaboration with the Larimer community, who is celebrating the community’s renewal with an emphasis on water harvesting, urban farming, and sustainable energy production.
Initially, the team produced a list of five potential sites for the project that was then introduced to the community for refinement. During these sessions, a list of site criteria was produced.
Through a series of workshops the community determined sites with the greatest potential for stormwater and placemaking opportunities. One of these sites overlapped with the areas identified as possible urban ag sites. If it were placed near urban ag, it could be integrated into a water supply and irrigation plan.
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RIGHT. Possible location for “The Well” arts project near urban ag site.
RIGHT. Image of seedlings in Tree Pittsburgh’s urban nursery
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Green Infrastructure Plant NurseryGreen infrastructure is an approach to dealing with rain water that mimics or restores the natural water cycle. Green infrastructure is different from the underground pipes that carry water away to sewage treatment plants or the river. Green infrastructure captures water where it falls, using it to irrigate plants, infiltrate underground, or for flushing toilets or other non-potable building uses.
Many elements of green infrastructure create pleasantly planted places in communities and may become features in gardens, parks, yards, or right of ways. It is being seriously considered at scale throughout the city by public entities like PWSA and Alcosan. Although it needs to be engineered as part of a system, just like the predominant “grey” infrastructure, it will require a whole new mind-set around landscape. Maintaining a “grey” pipe in a traditional system is different than cultivating a living system in green infrastructure. It uses different materials and different skill sets, both of which represent possible opportunities for urban ag in Larimer.
The development of a plant nursery that grows plants appropriate for green infrastructure could meet a growing demand for appropriate regional material. Well designed installations include grasses, shrubs, trees and other plant material that could be urban ag, but not in the
sense of food. Non edible plants could be a big benefit if soils are contaminated, which we know to be the case.
Plants for green infrastructure installations would also be grown over multiple years and could require less intensive maintenance than an urban farm of edible plants. It would allow for the business to grow resources as it grows trees and could decrease the level of start-up risk.
Lastly, the plant nursery could be part of a larger job training initiative for people to install and maintain the infrastructure. If green infrastructure is adopted widely there will be demand in the private and public sectors for people who know how to cultivate a working landscape. The nursery could serve as a hub for these training efforts for Larimer and the region.
Regional nonprofit organizations such as Tree Pittsburgh have already been involved in Larimer and understand the requirements for urban nurseries. Regional for profits such as Eisler’s Nursery have been on the forefront of commercial green infrastructure installations and understand the industry needs. Both could make good advisors or partners for a Nursery effort.
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History of CultivationLittle is known about how native peoples used the Larimer area, so our history begins when the area was cleared by early settlers and later farmed to provide food for Pittsburgh and the growing eastern communities. Early topographic maps of Larimer indicate a fairly flat landscape with a first order streams (possibly seasonal) near Shetland Avenue flowing towards the Negley Run valley. Walking the Larimer streets today, you can still see the slope toward the neighborhood edge. It is likely that the soil was fair for farming, rich with
organic matter but also with stones and stumps, but much of the soil was likely lost in from erosion from early farming practices. Little of this soil would remain today.
Raising Carp in Silver Lake Looking at the warehouses under the large stone viaducts on Washington Boulevard, it is hard to imagine that this area was once called Silver Lake. Silver Lake appears in some of the earliest maps of the area, and was a critical wetland reserve for runoff from two streams that once drained much of Homewood and Lincoln-Larimer. The Lake covered about four acres, and functioned to regulate the wet-weather flows in Negley Run. It was a popular site for swimming, skating in the winter, and was also used as an “ice pond” where people would harvest blocks of ice to store in “ice houses” until it would be sold off in the summer.
As early as the 1850s the entire area was owned by George Finley, an area businessman. In 1882, Finley published a book about raising carp for food. He reconfigured Silver Lake to maintain water levels and limit flooding during storm events, and raised carp for resale.
BACKGROUND A HISTORY OF CULTIVATIONLarimer has many unique stories around food and agricultural production that could be used to inform a competitive position and unique identity.
BELOW. Cover of carp book by George Finley
Growing and Making in LarimerAs more people moved into Larimer, the land was subdivided into smaller lots and farms were replaced with estates and smaller houses. Food production shifted from larger crops to lot sized gardens, as families grew food for their families. Without today’s supermarkets, distribution chains, and refrigeration technology, fresh food couldn’t travel as far. Small groceries on Larimer Avenue and throughout the community sold food and daily needs. Ethnic traditions often included preservation recipes such as canning or drying of foods to stretch the harvest into the winter months.
All this contributed to a rich food identity for Larimer. Bakeries made fresh bread daily. Access to East Liberty stockyards allowed meat market to flourish, boasting of their own unique sausage recipes. Scrappy looking hillsides were used for growing grapes for wine, with one hillside area of Larimer actually named Chianti. The area had a reputation for parties—it is likely that their wine never made it to any market!
As successive generations came and went in Larimer, so did the traditions and the businesses. You can still find legacy businesses in the community today, as
well as new businesses like breweries and coffee roasters. The community also has a growing number of small home businesses who cater or are celebrated at events like the Taste of Larimer.
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LEFT. Water park by artist Betsy Damon
BELOW. Small market in Larimer, circa Nov. 1929.
Urban + Ag = Long Term Relationship Cities began to form when we learned how to farm the land. We’ve been navigating that relationship between the two ever since. Planners like Ebeneezer Howard created diagrams of the ideal relationship between cities, food production, and food distribution. His idealized communities evoked ideals of a city, surrounded by a working rural landscape, each contributing positively to the other.
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Broadacre City as a closer approximation of the situation many communities find themselves today, with small units of property each acting on their own, creating a mosaic of independent properties, each with autonomy but unable to get to scale.
Despite this fragmentation, some efforts have been able to effectively encourage production. According to the National World War II Museum, Victory Gardens were able to produce 40% of all vegetables grown in the US by 1944. The Victory Garden campaign even encouraged apartment dwellers to create rooftop gardens and cultivate window boxes. The urgency for home production ended with the War, as patriotism shifted from production to consumption of newly available and affordable processed foods.
The shift towards urban agriculture is a result of many trends; global population growth is giving urgency to increased production methods in densifying cities; vacant land is inspiring an urban farming movement in shrinking cities. Many influential authors like Michael Pollan and Mark Bittman are bringing food quality into mainstream conversation. Restauranteurs are brought out of the kitchen in popular TV shows and consumers are responding by eating out more than any other time in our history, all the while equipping our kitchens with expensive gadgetry to prepare home cooked meals. The buy-local movement is enabling more small food related businesses to survive within the existing large agribusiness distribution system. Each of these influences creates a different agenda for urban agriculture.
Each urban agricultural model has to be understood in relationship to the agenda it is serving.
Some are surviving because they are chasing a premium market for specialty foods. Others are addressing community health concerns with education and production. Other models are drawing
BACKGROUND STATE OF THE MARKETIt is informative to look at national urban agricultural trends to understand the challenges and opportunities for Larimer.
resources from job retraining programs and are focused on creating economic opportunity and entrepreneurship.
Larimer’s Assets & ChallengesThe community identified a number of possible assets and challenges to creating a community supported urban agricultural enterprise, including:• There is a great deal of vacant land,
much of it contiguous.• Water resources could be harvested and
used on site.• The community would like to have an
emphasis on health and economic opportunity.
• Vacant land is largely owned by the City and Urban Redevelopment Authority and lacks a clear or expedient disposition process.
• Development pressure is increasing and the land may be economically more valuable if built upon.
• Soils are poor and are likely to have hazardous materials within them.
• The community does not yet have organizational infrastructure to run an urban farm.
• Community based urban ag entrepreneurs have only recently stepped forward.
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Data from 2010 census, 2013 American Community Survey and AreaVibes.com.
Larimer has
...their age distribution is as follows: the average age of the housing stock in Larimer is
69 years
men - womendistribution
Based on Census Data, low income neighborhood is a Census Track that has
more than 20% of its population
under poverty. Larimer with over
90% of its population below poverty and
low access to fresh food can be considered
a food desert.
1,598 PEOPLELarimer has
2,118 HOUSINGUNITS
0-17years old
18-44years old
45-64years old
65-74years old
75+years old
44% 56%
27.8% 31%41.2%are renter occupied
are owner occupied
arevacant
...from those
$590% of houses with mortgage
48%
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Larimer
Pittsburgh
all housing units average value
the median rent is
.25car by household
1 out of 3drive their car to work
% of population below poverty
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90.5%20% 1 out of 5 residents has a higher education degree
4 out of 5 residentsare high school graduates 1 out of 5 Pittsburghers
is a high school graduate
less than
1 out of 5 Pittsburghershas a Bachelor’s degree
less than
IDENTIFYING ASSETS FOOD SYSTEMSUrban agriculture is part of a food system that cycles nutrients through production, processing, distribution, consumption, and recapture. A strong system contributes to food security.
PRODUCTION
PROCESSING
DISTRIBUTION
CONSUMPTION
Walking the streets of Larimer, it is easy to forget that you are in the center of a busy city. The vacant lots are full of brush and growth, with an occasional fruit tree indicating that a house might have once been its neighbor. It is easy to imagine city blocks as gardens or orchards.
Indeed, many of Larimer’s past planning documents recommend urban ag as a possible win-win, producing food and jobs for the community while bringing the lots back into productive use and care. The 2010 Living Cities Ecodistrict Plan estimated that up to 15% of the community’s nutrient needs could be met by cultivating a swath of vacant lots in northeast area of the neighborhood. The plan also identified additional opportunities with urban foraging and food forest strategies combined with hillside ecosystem restoration.
However, food production is but one part of a system that enables health and wellness for the community. In addition to the growing of food, food networks need places that process food into other products, often of higher value. Food networks also need places or systems in place to sell or distribute their product, such as stores, markets, or community supported agriculture (CSA) agreements. Lastly, the consumption of food, whether in homes or restaurants, is an important piece of the network and is often a strong part of neighborhood identity. In a high functioning
vacant lot productiongreenhouses & hydroponicslivestock or aquaculturefood forest and silvaculture
commercial kitchensbreweriesproduct manufacturers
dedicated: grocers and supermarkets, direct sales stores partial: convenience storestemporary: farmers markets, farm stands
restaurants & barshome usefood trucks
food network, these parts work together, exchanging resources, including “waste” such as compost.
All these parts work in service to creating food security, which is a big issue for disadvantaged communities. A community has food security when all parts of the system function well. The World Health Organization defines food security as:
Food availability: sufficient quantities of food available on a consistent basis.
Food access: having sufficient resources to obtain appropriate foods for a nutritious diet.
Food use: appropriate use based on knowledge of basic nutrition and care, as well as adequate water and sanitation.
Although this report is focused on the agricultural production aspect within Larimer, we have included a brief assessment of the other parts of the food system to give context and to inform future food planning. In general, Larimer benefits
2010 Larimer ecodistrict plan excerpt
from its proximity to large supermarkets and one of the city’s largest farmers market. However, residents with mobility issues or income restrictions, may be unable to find affordable and healthy food in convenient stores or restaurants. This gap represents an opportunity to serve existing residents and to attract new residents.
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URBAN AGRICULTURAL COMPLEX
EDIBLE STREETSCAPE & BIKE LOOP
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FRUIT & NUT TREES
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GARDEN / FARM TYPESNUTRIENT
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NUTRIENT RECYCLINGHUMAN SEWAGEORGANIC MATERIALS
NUTRIENTS
Commercial and institutional developments integrate building and site based energy technologies and renewable and use building rating systems for construction and renovation. Aggregate multiple sites for larger and more efficient systems.
The type and scale of urban agriculture is determined by the scale of the administrative unit. It may range in scale from an urban farm (aggregated properties with single administration), public green space (larger scale with public administration), vacant lots (smaller scale with individual administration) to edge condition or residual space (smaller scale with little or unidentified administration).
Look for under-utilized or under maintained spaces for opportunities to insert food growing plants and communities.
| HARVEST FROM RESIDUAL & UNDER-UTILIZED SPACES
| OPTIMIZE FOR LOCALIZED ADMINISTRATION UNITS
| ENCOURAGE GREEN COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENTS
Inventory and align sources and uses based on immediate neighborhood and local demand for fresh produce. Determine a partner for the produced goods whether it is a neighborhood market, local restaurant or grocer who can consistently support the supply.
| MATCH SOURCES & USES
Large scale urban agriculture provides a base infrastructure to support individual efforts in proximity to the resources and knowledge of large scale efforts. Encourage administration of large scale agriculture to provide community education support services.
| INCENTIVIZE INDIVIDUAL ACTION
ASSETS FOOD PRODUCTIONVacant lots grow more valuable in a growth market. Urban ag needs to have strong roots to become a long term strategy.
According to city records, there are over 750 vacant lots in the community, with some blocks over 90% vacant. Contiguous lots represent opportunities for the cultivation of crops at a commercially viable scale.
The market in Larimer and surrounding communities is rapidly changing with increasing property values. Where urban ag may once have been considered as a long term land use, the shifting market
suggests that there will be pressure to develop open space for housing and other buildings. For urban ag to be a long term strategy, the selection of lots needs to be carefully considered to support the chosen production model. It should also be noted that there are many projects that are negotiating for properties, so not all properties shown are actually available.
Vacant Land
Hillsides
Community Garden
Community Use
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ASSETS FOOD PROCESSINGFood processing combines raw food ingredients to produce marketable food products and entrepreneurial and employment opportunities.
There are a few processing businesses in Larimer, including a sausage making business, bakeries, a brewery and a coffee roaster. Many businesses are located on the Hamilton-Frankstown corridor in existing warehouse buildings, as few commercial buildings exist in the residential area of the neighborhood. There are no known processing clusters (businesses located to share resources.)
Commercial kitchens may exist in churches and other civic serving buildings, though no on-site verification was done as part of this study.
Taking cues from proposed development plans, the most likely place for growth in processing businesses will be on the Hamilton-Frankstown corridor.
Existing Processing
Commercial Kitchen
ASSETS DISTRIBUTION & CONSUMPTIONFood is distributed through stores, market, and other retail outlets. We consume food in places such as restaurants, cafes, and food trucks. This map shows the community’s access to convenient fresh food.
Larimer benefits from two major food retailers, Target and Giant Eagle, as well as discount retailer Trader Joes, within walking distance. Other retailers, such as Aldi’s and Market District are on major bus lines.
One of the biggest farmer’s market in the city is within 1/2 mile and a small year-round Saturday farmer’s market is within walking distance. A “food truck” farmer’s market also visits the community once a week.
Supermarkets
Restaurants/Stores
Farmer’s Market
There is one of the highest densities of restaurants within 1/2 mile, with new restaurants set to open in the next year. There are relatively convenience stores, mostly in connection to gas stations.
All this would suggest that food is near and plentiful, however, residents do not necessarily connect to these resources. Lower income residents are not able to take advantage of emerging restaurant scene.
Outlets that typically contribute to poor nutrition in disadvantaged communities are not dominant in Larimer. There are few convenience stores than grocery stores within walking distance, limiting the effect the negative effect that convenience stores often have in “food desert” communities. There are however, a few informal eateries, including Mamma Rosa’s at Ashley and Collins and St. James Food Ministry.
Further study should be done to understand Larimer’s connection to nutrition and how the community can develop a culture of healthy cooking and consumption of fresh food. The study should investigate how to build on Larimer’s connections to food through events such as the Taste of Larimer, cultural traditions and history, and by connecting neighborhood entrepreneurs who might be running home food businesses with limited resources and market exposure.
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ABOVE. Impressions Jamaican Restaurant opened in 2014. (Photo: Post Gazette)
LEFT. Year round farmer’s market next to Home Depot.
Web
blo
ck.
Pos
t G
azet
te, 2
014.
Previous PlansThe urban ag zone has been defined in various planning documents. In most plans, it is located in the north east corner of the community, as that area is also the largest concentration of vacant lots and is also an area that is the most remote from development growth which is concentrated on the East Liberty edges.
LWOL was given the area in red as the study area for this report.
SITE DATA DEFINING AN URBAN AG ZONE
Lot-Block IdentificationMost lots are between 20 to 30 feet in width. The area was subdivided in the 1870s and was built out by 1890. Most of the structures no longer remain.
Lot ID
Private
Ownership Many lots in the area are publicly owned by the Urban Development Authority and the City of Pittsburgh or are in the tax delinquency process.
City of Pittsburgh
Tax Delinq’t 2+ yrs
URA
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5TH
PENN
EU
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LA
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SH
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IDA
N
LARIMER
HAMILTON
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FRANKSTOWN
SAXON
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LOW
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5TH
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EU
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WA
SH
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SH
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IDA
N
LARIMER
HAMILTON
CHIANTI
JAC
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BE
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SH
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KELLY
HOWE
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FRANKSTOWN
SAXON
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WALNUT
PAULSON
HIGHLAND
HAMPTON
LOW
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DIX
CO
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BRYANT
LENORA
POLK
FAR
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SHETLA
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THOMAS LYNN
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LA
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VE
NU
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LARIMER AVENUE
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STATI
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LARIM
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CO
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Private
City of Pittsburgh
Private
124-K-241
124-K-235
124
-K-2
81
124-P-147
124-P-254
124-P-238
124-P
-170
124-P-240
124-P-264
124-P
-245
124-P
-58
124-K
-285
124-P-52
124-K-273
124-P-56
124-P-145
124-P
-61
124-P
-133
124-P-53
124-P-55
124-P-146
124-P
-131
124-K
-289
124-P-261
124-P
-164
124-P-139
124-P-62
124-P-54
124-P-159
124-K-276
124-P-155124-P-152
124-P-64
124-P-153
124-K
-288
124-P-151
124-P-138
124-P
-163
124-P-136
124-P-232
124-P-257
124-P
-127
124-P-237
124-P-154
124-P-156
124-P
-167
124-P-258
124-P-63
124-P-256
124-K-268
124-P-150
124-P
-162
124-K-277
124-P
-123
124-P-236
124-P
-132
124-P-135
124-P-242
124-P
-247
124-P-160
124-P
-166 124-P-262
124-P
-244
124-P-157
124-K
-292
124-P
-59
124-P-144124-K-272
124-K-278 124-K
-290
124-P-235
124-K-267
124-P-137
124-P
-161
124-P-158
124-P-259
124-P-234
124-K-279
124-K-274
124-P
-124
124-P-233
124-P-140
124-P
-248
124-P-143
124-K-234-A
124-P
-128
124-P-121
124-K-275
124-K-271
124-P
-60
124-P-260-A
124-K-270
124-P
-129
124-P-142
124-P
-126
124-P
-122
124-P
-122-B
124-P-260
124-P
-122-A
124-P
-120
PAULSON
LOW
ELL
XENIAVIC
TOR
SHETLA
ND
TURRETT
WIN
FIELD
REGIS
RELIC
LA
DS
ON
VANILLA
REN
FREW
THOMPSON
VER
MILLIO
N
PAULSON
LOW
ELL
XENIAVIC
TOR
SHETLA
ND
TURRETT
WIN
FIELD
REGIS
RELIC
LA
DS
ON
VANILLA
REN
FREW
THOMPSON
VER
MILLIO
N
SITE DATA continued
T
T
T
T
PAULSON
LOWELL
XENIAVIC
TOR
SHETLA
ND
TURRETT
WIN
FIELD
REGIS
RELIC
LA
DS
ON
VANILLA
RENFREW
THOMPSON
VERM
ILLION
PAULSON
LOWELL
XENIAVIC
TOR
SHETLA
ND
TURRETT
WIN
FIELD
REGIS
RELIC
LA
DS
ON
VANILLA
RENFREW
THOMPSON
VERM
ILLION
Surface Water FlowThe majority of storm runoff in this area travels over the streets and sidewalks--very little flows off of individual properties. Some areas are high and are mostly dry. Other areas are it the low points, where water cannot easily drain, so water is concentrated. These might opportunities for collection. Arrows indicate water flow direction and relative increase in water quantity.
Prominent Trees
Tall Shrubs
Areas w/Trash
Directional Flow
Concentration Areas
High Points
Existing ConditionsIn early summer of 2015, members of the LWOL team walked the subject blocks and visually assessed for current conditions. Open areas not indicated as shrubs or trees were largely lawn or tall grasses/weeds.
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+
+
+
PAULSON
LOW
ELL
XENIAVIC
TOR
SHETLA
ND
TURRETT
WIN
FIELD
REGIS
RELIC
LA
DS
ON
VANILLA
REN
FREW
THOMPSON
VER
MILLIO
N
PAULSON
LOW
ELL
XENIAVIC
TOR
SHETLA
ND
TURRETT
WIN
FIELD
REGIS
RELIC
LA
DS
ON
VANILLA
REN
FREW
THOMPSON
VER
MILLIO
N
BUSINESS MODEL URBAN FARMINGThe following business models for urban farms and gardens were identified for consideration by the community. An urban farm typically functions as a commercial entity. An example is given for each.
PERMACULTURE SCHOOL Asheville, NC :: www.thepermacultureschool.org
FLYING COW RANCH Miaoli, Taiwan :: www.flyingcow.com.tw
Ownership Non-Profit CorporationFunding Grants + TuitionSupporting Organizations Appalachian Center for Agroforestry + AshevillageAdditional Activities Water Retention Landscaping + Natural Building Design
Ownership PrivateFunding Marketing + SalesSupporting Organizations N/AAdditional Activities Foraging Cultivation, Dairy Farm
STATS
STATS
Economic
Economic
Ecological
Ecological
Engaging
Engaging
Edible
Edible
EDUCATIONAL FARM
LEISURE FARM
Farm schools, pedagogic centers and training centers. Quite often they offer specific learning programs for visiting schools.
Agro-tourism/Gastronomic Tourism/ Equestrian activities in the suburban or peri urban area, intended to meet the urban demand for leisure and wellness.
COMMON GROUND Palo Alto, CA :: www.commongroundgarden.org
WINDY CITY HARVEST Chicago, IL :: www.chicagobotanic.org
Ownership Non-Profit CorporationFunding DonationsSupporting Organizations Ecology ActionAdditional Activities Classes + Tours
Ownership Management Team + BoDFunding Grants + DonationsSupporting Organizations Chicago Botanic Garden + Lake Country Forest PreservesAdditional Activities Apprenticeship Programs + Educational Courses
STATS
STATS
Economic
Economic
Ecological
Ecological
Engaging
Engaging
Edible
Edible
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AGRI-ENVIRONMENTAL FARM
SOCIAL FARM
A whole-systems approach to agriculture and food systems development based on traditional knowledge, alternative agriculture, and local food system experiences.
An educational and transitional jobs platform for the formerly incarcerated, justice-involved youth, and others who have significant barriers to employment. They are intended to solve deep social problems and are often driven by social engagement.
imag
es: m
isc
web
sou
rces
BLANDY FARMS Boyce, VA :: www.blandy.virginia.edu
GOULD FARM Monterey, MA :: www.gouldfarm.org
Ownership Non-Profit CorporationFunding Grants, Memberships + DonationsSupporting Organizations State Arboretum of Virginia + University of VirginiaAdditional Activities Walking Trail, Community Garden, Clubs + Festivals
Ownership Non-Profit CorporationFunding Grants + DonationsSupporting Organizations The American Residential Treatment AssociationAdditional Activities Model Forest, Bakery + Transition Preparation
STATS
STATS
Economic
Economic
Ecological
Ecological
Engaging
Engaging
Edible
Edible
EXPERIMENTAL FARM
THERAPEUTIC FARM
Includes agricultural experimental research centers in and around the city which are intentionally localized in proximity to the city to utilize the pool of expert knowledge in academic institutions.
Includes agricultural experimental research centers in and around the city which are intentionally localized in proximity to the city to utilize the pool of expert knowledge in academic institutions.
BUSINESS MODEL URBAN FARMING
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GULLAH GARDENING St. Helena Island, SC :: www.thegullahproject.org
APPLECREST FARM Hampton Falls, NH :: www.applecrest.com
Ownership Sole ProprietorFunding Donations + MarketSupporting Organizations Federal Commission + National Heritage Areas ActAdditional Activities Education, Economic Development + Preservation
Ownership Non-Profit CorporationFunding Membership + GrantsSupporting Organizations Close Community TiesAdditional Activities Petting Zoo, Horse Drawn Hay Rides, Festivals + Contests
STATS
STATS
Economic
Economic
Ecological
Ecological
Engaging
Engaging
Edible
Edible
CULTURAL HERITAGE FARM
FARM SHARE (CSA)
Farms dedicated to teaching the next generation how to build entrepreneurship skills. It sets in motion a program that teaches the importance of gardening including local varieties, that preserve the agricultural history and traditions of a culture.
A farmer offers a certain number of “shares” to the public. Interested consumers purchase a share (or a membership/subscription) and in return receive a box/bag/basket of seasonal produce each week throughout the farming season.
imag
es: m
isc
web
sou
rces
BUSINESS MODEL URBAN GARDENINGAn urban garden typically serves individuals or organizations, with limited commercial activity. Garden activities often have other intentions, such as social goals. An example is given for each.
LAGUNA HONDA HOSPITAL San Francisco, CA :: www.lagunahonda.org
LARIMER COMMUNITY GARDEN Pittsburgh, PA :: www.larimer.wordpress.com
Ownership Laguna Honda HospitalFunding Donations + Proposition ASupporting Organizations San Francisco Departments of Public Health and WorksAdditional Activities Walking Trail, Community Garden, Clubs + Festivals
Ownership Community Land TrustFunding Grants + MembershipSupporting Organizations Larimer Green Team, Kingsley AssociationAdditional Activities
STATS
STATS
Economic
Economic
Ecological
Ecological
Engaging
Engaging
Edible
Edible
THERAPEUTIC GARDEN
COMMUNITY GARDEN
Usually located at health care institutions such as hospitals or homes for elderly people.
A recent phenomenon whose rules and organization are established by the community, which are open and usually (not always) integrated in a network to share experiences and learn together. Their main functions are social meeting places to build a sense of community.
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WALDORF-SUMMERFIELD Henderson, NC :: www.summerfieldws.org
PATHWAY TO FREEDOM Pasadena, CA :: www.urbanhomestead.com
Ownership Non-Profit CorporationFunding Grants + DonationsSupporting Organizations Additional Activities Farm to Feast, Summer Camp + Certified K-12 Curriculum
Ownership Family OwnedFunding RetailSupporting Organizations Network of Local RestaurantsAdditional Activities Film/Food Nights, Workshops, Community Gatherings
STATS
STATS
Economic
Economic
Ecological
Ecological
Engaging
Engaging
Edible
Edible
EDUCATIONAL GARDEN
FAMILY GARDEN
Developed by an educational institution, their location depends on that of the hosting institution. There are two subtypes: (1) gardens located in educational institutions, and (2) gardens for educational purposes open to visitors.
Not on a political agenda, but are developed as individual activities.
imag
es: m
isc
web
sou
rces
imag
es: m
isc
web
sou
rces
GHOST TOWN FARMS Oakland, CA :: www.ghosttownfarm.wordpress.com
OCTOPUS GARDEN Pittsburgh, PA :: facebook.com/octopusgardenpittsburgh
Ownership Sole ProprietorFunding MarketSupporting Organizations NoneAdditional Activities Tours + Educational Classes
Ownership Profitable CorporationFunding Grants + DonationsSupporting Organizations Neighboring InstitutionAdditional Activities Workshops, Courses + Apprenticeship Programs
STATS
STATS
Economic
Economic
Ecological
Ecological
Engaging
Engaging
Edible
Edible
SQUATTER GARDEN
ALLOTMENT GARDEN
Use of idle land for growing fresh food. They may be driven by individuals or by social communities.
This type is subdivided in small plots that are rented under a tenancy agreement. In some cases administration is undertaken by an allotment gardens association. In general, functions have shifted from self-provision to leisure.
BUSINESS MODEL URBAN GARDENING
BUSINESS MODEL RESOURCES
Small Business Encyclopediahttp://www.entrepreneur.com/encyclopedia/nonprofit-corporation
Citizen Media Law Projecthttp://www.dmlp.org/sites/citmedialaw.org/files/L3C-Primer.pdf
Field Guide to the New American Foodshedhttp://www.foodshedguide.org/decisions/structure
Flying Cow Ranchhttp://www.flyingcow.com.tw
The Permaculture Schoolhttp://www.thepermacultureschool.org
University of Virginia - Blandy Experimental Farmhttp://www.blandy.virginia.edu
Gould Farmhttp://www.gouldfarm.org
Chicago Botanic Gardenhttp://www.chicagobotanic.org
Common Ground Gardenhttp://www.commongroundgarden.org
The Gullah Projecthttp://www.thegullahproject.org
Applecrest Farmhttp://www.applecrest.com
Laguna Honda - Hospital and Rehabilitation Centerhttp://www.lagunahonda.org
The Larimer Green Teamhttp://www.larimer.wordpress.com
Ghost Town Farmhttp://www.ghosttownfarm.wordpress.com
Summerfield - Waldorf School and Farmhttp://www.summerfieldws.org
The Urban Homesteadhttp://urbanhomestead.org
Octopus Gardenhttp://www.facebook.com/octopusgardenpittsburgh
Limited Liability CompanyThe Limited Liability Company is a business structure that allows for the limited personal liability feature of a corporation with the single taxation feature of partnerships and sole proprietorships. Most states allow this structure to have a single or multiple owners.
Advantages+ Liability protection + financial flexibility+ Tax returns are for information only- each
member files separately+ Minimal administrative paperwork+ Shareholder investments can be used to
raise necessary capital
Disadvantages+ Although not required to have a board
of directors, members must establish governance and protective provisions
+ More difficult to raise capital than a corporation
+ Pennsylvania levies a franchise or capital values tax on LLCs
+ May require annual renewal fees
BUSINESS MODEL ISSUES OF OWNERSHIPThe success of an urban ag venture depends on its leadership and corporate structure to create a viable business plan.
Ownership models help us understand how an organization can find funding, establish a decision-making process, and deal with profits or debt. It is one of many technical considerations to consider when establishing an urban agriculture business. The following summaries are from The Digital Media Project (www.dmlp.org)
LEFT. Urban Transitional Cities Movement event
Livi
ng W
ater
s of
Lar
imer
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CooperativeA Cooperative is an business structure owned, controlled, and operated by a group of users (rather than investors) for their own benefit. Each member contributes equity capital and shares in the control of the firm on the basis of one-member, one-vote principle. Core principles include: (1) user benefit, (2) user control and (3) user ownership
Advantages+ Owned and controlled by the members, not
investors)
Disadvantages+ Limited or no distribution of profits to
members/shareholders+ Despite greater involvement or investment,
a shareholder may only have one vote
Non-Profit CorporationA Non-Profit Corporation serves some public purpose and therefore enjoys special treatment via taxes under the law. Nonprofit corporations, contrary to their name, can make a profit but it is not their main concern
Advantages+ Eligible for sales, property and income
tax exemptions at the state level+ Contributions may be tax deductible for
the contributing entity
Disadvantages+ Any profit made is put back into the
organization+ Revenue is more closely scrutinized by the
governing body
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Urban agriculture can contribute to healthy communities, economic security, and can enhance ecological habitat. Pittsburgh has many organizations who directly or indirectly support these goals.
This is a partial list of organizations that are part of our regional food system.
Food and HealthGreater Pittsburgh Community Food BankThe Food Bank works to eliminate hunger through the collection and distribution of food throughout the region and through programs that increase awareness and action in all areas of the food system. One major
www.pittsburghfoodbank.org
Southwest PA Food Security PartnershipA program of the Food Bank, the FSP supports community led efforts to improve food security. The FSP has information on food deserts.
www.pittsburghfoodbank.org/foodpartnership/
Pittsburgh Food Policy CouncilThe Food Policy Council is a collaboration of food related organizes that convene to improve Pittsburgh’s food system. The Council is also active in land use issues that support urban agriculture.
www.pittsburghfoodpolicy.org/
Chatham College Food Studies ProgramChatham’s Food Studies program in the Falk School of Sustainability looks at all aspects of the food delivery system and how it affects communities. Chatham has a facility in Larimer and a farm campus outside of Pittsburgh.
falk.chatham.edu/mafs/
Allegheny County Health DepartmentThe ACHD regulates food safety from the processing of produce to the sales of food in restaurants. They grant permits and inspect food facilities.
http://www.achd.net/food/
Farm Truck FoodsFarm Truck bridges the gap between farmers and communities by making a mobile farmer’s market produce more accessible with weekly food truck visits.
www.ftfpgh.com/
RESOURCES SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONSSuccessful urban agriculture ventures are part of a strong network of individuals and organizations dedicated to connecting people to healthy food.
Pit
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Food
Pol
icy
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BELOW. Pgh Food Policy Council event
Pittsburgh Slow FoodPSF is part of a global movement to create food that is healthy, good for the people who grow it, and good for the environment. They offer classes and workshops, and helped start Farmer’s at the Firehouse, a farmer’s market in the Strip District.
www.slowfoodpgh.com/
Pittsburgh Raw Food MeetupsThe Pittsburgh Raw Food Meetup is a virtual group that shares information and plans events in support of vegetarian and raw food diets.
www.meetup.com/rawfood-196/
East End Food CoopThe East End Food Coop is a member owned food market and cafe in Point Breeze and is one of the region’s first retail stores to bring
www.eastendfood.coop/
Farm to Table PittsburghFarm to Table bridges the gap between food producers and consumers through education, with general education and programs for schools and workplaces.
www.farmtotablepa.com/
New Sun Rising New Sun Rising is a social entrepreneurial support organization with a track record with food-related enterprises and a current food incubator effort headquartered in Millvale.
www.newsunrising.org/launch-millvale/
Big Burrito RestaurantsBig Burrito runs some of the most popular restaurants in the East End (Casbah, Soba, Mad Mex, etc.,) and is a long time community partner, offering fund raisers and other support.
www.bigburrito.com/
Land Use and Urban AgGrow PittsburghGrow Pittsburgh is the region’s major advocate for urban agriculture, providing educational resources and agricultural support to communities, schools, and other organizations.
www.growpittsburgh.org/
Gtech StrategiesGtech helps communities who may be considering urban agriculture develop human resources and economic strategies through reuse of vacant land.
www.gtechstrategies.org
Allegheny Land TrustALT is working with communities on urban land control that can be essential to sustain urban agricultural uses over the long term.
www.alleghenylandtrust.org
PA Association for Sustainable AgriculturePA Association for Sustainable Agriculture promotes profitable farming that provides for people and improves the environment. A number of PASA programs raise awareness on healthy and local food options.
www.pasafarming.org/
Tree PittsburghTree Pittsburgh is a leading advocate for the health of our urban forests and operates an tree nursery in Lawrenceville.
http://treepittsburgh.org/
FundingA number of foundations and funders have formally or informally declared their commitment to the region’s food systems and have increased their giving to this area, including the Hillman Foundation, the Heinz Endowments, and the RK Mellon Foundation.
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RESOURCES MORE INFORMATION Places to find more information on urban agriculture.
Cash Crop Diversification Resourceshttp://ruraladvantage.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/cashcropping.pdf
Ethnic Producehttp://www.aces.edu/urban/documents/EthnicVegetableProjectPromo.pdf
SPIN Farminghttp://www.spinfarming.com/faq/
Cash Cropshttp://www.cropsreview.com/cash-crop-farming.html
http://www.planning.org/zoningpractice/2010/pdf/mar.pdfhttp://www.profitableplantsdigest.com/growing-for-market-consider-these-profitable-plants/
Great resource for all kinds of growinghttp://www.beginningfarmers.org/urban-farming/http://www.urbangardensweb.com/2013/06/01/how-to-build-indoor-hydroponic-gardens-using-ikea-storage-boxes/
Specialty Crops: Shiitake Mushrooms and Garlichttp://www2.ca.uky.edu/agc/pubs/for/for88/for88.pdfhttps://www2.ag.purdue.edu/hla/fruitveg/MidWest%20Trial%20Reports/2012/03-01_Coolong_Garlic.pdfhttp://www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/cropsystems/dc7317.html
Green Infrastructure Policies for Alleviating Poverty and Promoting Healthhttp://bit.ly/1GGwimL
Urban Agriculture in Detroit and Policieshttp://law.wayne.edu/pdf/urban_agriculture_policy_paper_mogk.pdf
Entrepreneurial Urban Agriculture in USAhttp://www.urbantilth.org/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/farminginsidecities.pdf
Walipini Stylehttp://www.treehugger.com/green-architecture/build-underground-greenhouse-garden-year-round.htmlhttp://hungrymotherorganics.com/archives/1334
San Francisco Commercial Urban Agriculturehttp://www.sfenvironment.org/article/additional-resources/feasibility-study-of-commercial-urban-agriculture-in-san-francisco
WISC eduhttp://urpl.wisc.edu/ecoplan/content/lit_urbanag.pdf
Youngstown OH Urban Agriculture studyhttp://www.globalgreen.org/docs/publication-189-1.012-4
Columbia University: Urban Agriculture Viable Scenarioshttp://www.urbandesignlab.columbia.edu/?pid=urban_agriculture
Tuft University: Food and Fuel Priceshttp://fletcher.tufts.edu/IBGC/Research/~/media/Fletcher/Microsites/CEME/newpdfs/Food-fuel_price_dynamics.ashx
Food Production and Demandhttp://www.usda.gov/oce/commodity/wasde/http://www.ers.usda.gov/topics/in-the-news/us-drought-2012-farm-and-food-impacts.aspx#.UqCPqcRDuFBhttp://www.ers.usda.gov/data-products/food-price-outlook.aspx#26630
Crops and where they are grownhttp://www1.agric.gov.ab.ca/$department/deptdocs.nsf/all/sis5219#wheat
Pennsylvania Cash Cropshttp://norml.org/legal/item/pennsylvania-top-10-cash-crops
Map of locations of cropshttp://www.usda.gov/oce/weather/pubs/Other/MWCACP/namerica.htm
Definition of Urban Agriculturehttp://www.ruaf.org/node/512
Picture Gotham Greenshttp://www.farmxchange.org/top-8-urban-farms-in-the-world/
Diagram of Vertical Farmhttp://www.iees.ch/EcoEng041/EcoEng041_verticalFarm.html
Diagram in Chicagohttp://seedstock.com/2012/03/15/chicago-org-aims-to-transform-industrial-blight-into-sustainable-urban-farm-and-food-business-incubator/
Climate Change in PAhttp://www.ucsusa.org/global_warming/science_and_impacts/impacts/climate-change-pa.html
Maps of distributionhttp://m.ammoth.us/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/bfs_1_national-maps.jpg
Garfield Farmshttp://www.garfieldfarm.com/about-the-farm-2/about/
Crop Yieldshttp://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/worldviews/wp/2012/12/24/is-production-of-key-global-crops-stagnating/
Pittsburgh Farm infohttp://www.carnegielibrary.org/research/food/pittsburgh/farmers.html
Map of Community Gardenshttp://www.batchgeo.com/map/pghcommunityfoodgardens
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RESOURCES COMMUNITY FEEDBACKPreliminary community feedback from exercise and presentation at the Green Team Meting on 23 July 2015.
GROUP ONE GROUP TWO GROUP THREE
In Larimer, A
Would Be Able To
It Could Include
It Would Be Run By
It Would Distribute To
It Would Be Funded By
What type of Farm best fits Larimer’s needs?
What is the guiding mission of this enterprise?
Which produce, products and services should this farm prioritize?
Who has ownership and who is liable?
What networks and opportunities could this farm connect to?
What is the major source of revenue for this model?
Cultural Heritage Farm
Cultural Heritage Farm w/ Therapeutic Educational,
Celebratory Assets w/Ecological Philosophy
Cultural Farm, Therapeutic Garden,
Social Farm
Speak To Ag Legacy, Spark Cultural Events,
Build Community + Teach History
Engage All People to Understand Cultures and How They Grow Food
Educate On Cultural Nutrition, Circulate
Healing Resources + Medicinal Herb Training
Restaurants + Classes In Food Preparation
Culturally Specific Crops Cultural Festivals,
Educational + Therapeutic Services
Vegetation, Fruits, Herbs, Education,
Workshops + Classes in Food Preparation
The August Wilson Center Or The Heinz
History Center? The “LGT”
The Diaspora Of Larimer, New Residents + Local
Retail/Restaurants
Larimer, Corner Stores, Local Markets,
Educational and Health Establishments
Churches, Prison Workforce, Local
Businesses, Nutrition Educators + Hospitals VA
CSRSales, Fees (From
Attractions/Events) + Grants
Grants, “UPMC”, Highmark Foundation +
Fund Raising
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LIVING WATERS OF LARIMER
A PROJECT OFThe Kingsley Association, the Larimer Green Team,
and the Larimer Consensus Group
SUPPORTED BYThe Heinz Endowments
Copyright © 2015Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania