The Importance of Urban + Small Scale Agriculture, and Conservation
Urban agriculture enriches local communities economically, socially, and nutritionally. It connects people to their food, in ways that support conservation and food justice for disadvantaged populations. Urban agriculture programs such as community gardens, inner city small farms, and rural farm markets can also engage seniors, target the youth, and supply food banks. We are promoting urban agriculture across the state and want you to get involved!
Economic
Development
Urban agriculture has the ability to profoundly impact the economic stability and growth of communities across the state. Urban agriculture can create jobs, promote entrepreneurship, and save money on transportation and storage costs for locally grown produce. Our goal is to promote the benefits of urban agriculture, and equip farmers with the skills necessary to turn a profit in the industry.
Local Food Production
Sustainable farming practices are a key to a healthy and abundant future. Going beyond traditional agriculture models and incorporating innovative practices such as indoor and vertical growing methods, can produce more food closer to where it is consumed. This model reduces emissions from transport, preserves more of the nutritional benefits of the food, and stabilizes food deserts.
Locally Led
Conservation
-
Organize community conservation events
-
Make a personal commitment to conserve more water and other natural resources in your every day life
-
Vote for legislation or candidates that support conservation positive infrastructure and policy
Involve your community in conservation.
Environmental Stewardship
We must make choices as individuals, companies, communities, and government organizations, that are shaped by unique environmental, social, and economic interests. Environmental Stewardship is also a behavior, one demonstrated through continuous improvement of environmental performance, and a commitment to efficient use of natural resources, protection of ecosystems, and, where applicable, ensuring a baseline of compliance with environmental requirements.
We can show you how to get involved
Get a FREE Conservation plan for home, school, or business. NRCS can help you formulate a plan that will help you become a steward of your environment and contribute to the wellbeing of your community and the planet!
What all this is about?
Sustainable small-scale agriculture holds a pivotal role in addressing the escalating issue of food insecurity in Arkansas. As the state grapples with challenges related to access to fresh, nutritious food, particularly in underserved communities, the significance of sustainable agriculture becomes more pronounced. Local, small-scale farming practices not only contribute to the availability of fresh produce but also foster resilience within communities by ensuring a consistent food supply nutritious food. Sustainable agriculture practices, such as agroecology and permaculture, enhance soil health, reduce reliance on chemical inputs, and promote biodiversity. Lets make it happen yall!​
Get Started In Conservation!
Are you a farmer and would like to apply for NRCS Services? Do you want to become a farmer? Are you a gardener and want to start contributing to the local food supply and make income while doing so? Click the link below for forms, instructions and information