UF/IFAS Extension Broward and the Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center in Florida have partnered to design the “Sustainable Urban Food Production” workshop series. During the pandemic, both offices have seen a great increase in the amount of residential requests for information on how to locally grow healthful food options.
“With increased urbanization, we see a lack of fresh produce and it is harder for people to obtain that fresh produce, which is critical to a healthy lifestyle,” said Kimberly Moore, associate director for the Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center. “This program is unique because we are empowering the community with nontraditional science-based techniques for growing fresh produce in an urban environment. It is not your everyday garden.”
The six-week program features a three-hour workshop held once a week. The total cost for the program is $25 per person. Due to social distancing requirements, the program will be conducted in a blended format including virtual lectures, Zoom presentations, hands-on activities, and field trips. The program provides a background on sustainable urban food production, and includes diversified urban production methods, best management practices, water recycling, plant pest identification, basics on renewable energy, and basics on the cottage food industry.
“This series is designed to enhance the livelihood of urban residents,” said Lorna Bravo, director of UF/IFAS Extension Broward and an urban horticulture agent. “Through this COVID-19 experience, I have had the opportunity to engage with more people who live in apartment and condo settings, which is allowing us to reach a different audience in the urban environment. To me, this is exciting.”
For more information , visit the UF/IFAS Extension Broward Sustainable Urban Food Production website.