Lawrence gardeners and farmers talk about community garden
The city of Lawrence and Douglas county are seeking applications for an Urban Agriculture/Community Garden land use program (Common Ground). Organizers say the request for applications is intended to assist initiatives for the development of urban agriculture and community gardens in the area, increasing local food production, and providing community benefits.
On Monday night, farmers and gardeners filled city hall to ask questions about the program.
The city and county seek applications from qualified individuals, businesses, and/or nonprofit organizations to apply for a license to use currently vacant or underutilized municipally-owned properties with the goal of producing fresh healthy food for personal consumption and/or sale.
The Common Ground Program’s goal is to license these properties for the cultivation and sale of plants, herbs, fruits, flowers, or vegetables, either as for-profit or not-for-profit enterprises. Local community members are strongly encouraged to submit applications and/or develop partnerships with local community organizations.
Applications are due by Dec. 16. For more information, contact Sustainability Coordinator Eileen Horn at ehorn@lawrenceks.org.