Local Food
A socially, economically and ecologically sustainable food system supports and promotes the current and future health of individuals, communities and the natural environment. It requires infrastructure and networks that support the life cycle of food from production to waste recovery. It makes nutritious food accessible and affordable to all, increases food safety and security, and is biodiverse and resilient. It is also humane and fair, protecting farmers, workers, consumers and communities.
To learn more, be sure to visit the City's Homegrown Minneapolis website.
Targets
- Increase by one acre food producing gardens in the city by 2014 using 2011 as a baseline.
- All residents live within a quarter (1/4) mile of a healthy food choice.
Recent City & Community Activities
- On April 5, 2012, the City Council adopted the Urban Agriculture Text Amendments (pdf) allowing food to be grown commercially in Minneapolis. Commercial growing and aquaculture are allowed on a larger-scale at urban farms on property zoned for industrial use. Arbors, trellises, raised planting beds, cold frames and hoop houses are also allowed.
- Funded and supported the development of the Local Food Resource Hubs Network in partnership with Gardening Matters and others to improve residents’ access to the seeds, tools, education and connections needed to grow food successfully. Four pilot hubs with approximately 692 members were established during 2012.
- Made healthy food accessible to more residents by expanding Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) and Market Bucks (coupons worth $5 of free produce) to include a total of 13 Farmers Markets in Minneapolis. These programs were utilized by nearly 3000 people. During the 2012 market year, there was a combined total of more than $69,971 in EBT sales and Market Bucks redemptions, circulating federal food support into the local economy.
- In 2012, there were 22 mini markets and 7 full scale farmers markets in the City supplied by 180+ registered market vendors and hundreds of local produce vendors. These markets support local farmers and provide access to fresh, healthy local foods in Minneapolis.
- In 2012, planted 400 apple trees and 110 cherry trees around the city as part of the City Trees program.
- The City has 106 community gardens that cultivate 21.5 acres of land.
- Other accomplishments and activities in 2012 include an expanded composting program, updated farmers' market ordinances, and City support for food entrepreneurs.
Last updated Feb. 27, 2013