In Minnesota’s Twin Cities, Stones Throw Urban Farm (STUF) is transforming unloved and unused plots of land into sources of food for their community. Vacant lots can pose challenges for urban neighborhoods in terms of property values, safety, and community connectivity. STUF sees the opportunity for urban agriculture presented by these challenges. The relatively new organization is currently farming on 18 lots with a diverse rotation and selection of crops and is seeking funds via Kickstarter for ten more plots.
STUF is structured with two outlets for the food it produces. It acts as a CSA (community supported agriculture) in which members pay a fee to receive a share of the produce. The monetary support helps to cover the costs of maintaining the farms. Members can also get a share of the crop in exchange for time and labor spent helping to grow, harvest, and maintain the farms. STUF also acts as a market garden, selling a designated quantity of the produce though the Mill City Farmers Market in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Over the next month, STUF is attempting to raise $15,000 to help fund the startup costs at 10 new lots for this upcoming spring, which will include costs for tools, seed, a tiller, and compost. Check out the Kickstarter page to learn more about their plans. Find out how they are taking back food sovereignty by providing locally-grown food for their neighbors, and get inspired by the opportunities that vacant lots in your own neighborhood may present.
