Partnerships Transform a Vacant, Urban Lot into Food Production Hub

Partnerships are fundamental in improving local food systems. The City of Phoenix, the University of Arizona Cooperative Extension, the International Rescue Committee (IRC), local schools and other non-governmental agencies have partnered to grow food on a 15-acre parcel on vacant land near the busiest intersection in the nation’s 6^th largest city. A vision of City of Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton, the project titled Phoenix Renews was launched in 2012 and has become a focal point for activity and discussion around land and water access for food producers, supplying the demand for locally-grown food, community engagement, environmental education, and local food policy. The City of Phoenix offers subscription-based community garden plots for home gardeners and organizes community volunteerism opportunities that actively engage residents in food production for local consumption. The University of Arizona Cooperative Extension offers beginning farmers tools and technical support at the site on a 1-acre incubator farm. The IRC New Roots Program farms 4 acres on the site to supply their CSA and other local markets. The City of Phoenix offers the land and irrigation water free of charge to partner organizations and encourages cooperation among them to support a more vibrant local food system.