Interest in local agriculture is surging—whether it’s urban, rural, roof-top, or front-yard—and the benefits may be huge
Urban agriculture is surging in British Columbia and across North America, resulting in a growing network of small-scale farms, rooftop, back- and front-yard gardens, and community gardening initiatives. The potential benefits to the gardener-farmers and communities have also become apparent—including the alleviation of poverty and waste, the promotion of sustainable development, reductions in crime, an increased sense of community, improved nutrition, and a host of ecological benefits.
Health professionals have also recognized the value of farm- and garden-scale urban agriculture [opens to PDF]—including the engagement of local citizens in work and benefits to food security, exercise, and mental health.
We speak with Javan Kerby Bernakevitch. Javan is an educator with Permaculture B.C. He’s versed in construction, natural building, environmental education, group facilitation and organic gardening.
