Why do we need to grow more of our own food? According to local garden expert Larry Stebbins, Colorado Springs is behind many other cities in local food sufficiency. He explains why urban gardening plays a critical role in our resilience and food supply in the face of a growing population and shrinking farmland. He also shares some of the opportunities in the local area for embracing urban farming. This includes the Backyard Garden Project – launched this year – which helps local food-insecure families start their own raised-bed gardens.
Michael Rigny fills us in on a survey and mapping project he and Larry are conducting to help track progress on some of the stretch goals of the 2030 Sustainability Plan – increased regional farming and more people growing their own food.
Ruthie Markwardt of Flying Pig Farm and Colorado Farm and Art Market updates us on current status and plans for the markets.
LINKS:
Slides accompanying Ruthie's CFAM update http://studio809radio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/CFAM-Slides.pdf
The Garden Father (Larry Stebbins’ website) https://thegardenfather.com/
Backyard Garden Project info https://thegardenfather.com/garden-blog/f/backyard-garden-project-you-can-help
Colorado Farm and Art Market https://farmandartmarket.com/
This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on April 21, 2021. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month.
May's SIP will be held on Wednesday, May 19, 2021 at 8 am.
Special thanks to Studio 809 Supporter and Community Partner, Springs Homes. https://www.springshomes.com
The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's sustainability plan (PPR2030) through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakalliance.org
The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region.
Colorado Springs Office of Innovation & Sustainability
Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future
Pikes Peak Environmental Forum
Pikes Peak Group of Sierra Club
Pikes Peak Permaculture
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