NYC community gardens program garners state farm award

By Blake Jackson

New York City's GreenThumb program, known for its expansive community gardens, received an unexpected honor: the Ag Promotion Award from the New York State Agricultural Society. While seemingly an unlikely recipient, GreenThumb's impact on urban agriculture and public understanding of food systems earned it recognition. 

Established in 1978, GreenThumb transforms vacant lots into vibrant gardens, providing fresh produce, green spaces, and educational opportunities for countless New Yorkers. Their dedicated teams manage various aspects, from working directly with gardeners to planning future programs and engaging youth leaders. 

The award highlighted GreenThumb's role in bridging the gap between consumers and the source of their food. In a society increasingly disconnected from agriculture, GreenThumb's efforts to educate and engage the public were seen as crucial. 

With over 550 community gardens and thousands of volunteers, GreenThumb fosters a culture of growing and preserving food while protecting valuable open spaces. Program participants receive resources, workshops, and support to cultivate their own urban oases. 

The program's diverse 2023 workshops showcased its commitment to sustainability and knowledge sharing: from herb drying and cover cropping to Afro-Indigenous traditions and mushroom cultivation. This breadth reflects GreenThumb's holistic approach to urban agriculture. 

For award committee chair Barbara Hanselman, GreenThumb's impact extends beyond New York City. Her perspective, shaped by running a dairy farm alongside managing other agricultural endeavors, recognized the program's wider significance. GreenThumb, she noted, exemplifies how diverse forms of agriculture, even within urban settings, can contribute to a broader understanding and appreciation of the industry. 

This award highlights the innovative and impactful work of GreenThumb, demonstrating that urban agriculture plays a vital role in connecting communities, promoting sustainability, and fostering a closer relationship between consumers and their food sources.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-johnbraid