Tour De Farm Showcases Denver Urban Farms

When I think of farming, the last thing that comes to mind is a city. That was until cycling with Tour De Farm this weekend for a look at some urban farms in the Denver area. We rode 16 miles along the highline canal trail, touring Ekar, Sprout City and Delaney farms. As many people are starting to realize the benefits of incorporating fresh produce into their lifestyles, urban farms are on the up and up.

But for some, including low-income communities, adding in produce can be expensive. Ekar Farms helps solve this problem by growing produce for four different shelters to serve those that couldn’t otherwise afford it. “Each year we set a goal to grow 8,000 pounds of produce to donate. We are right on track this year. Thanks to the help of volunteers” says Aaron Ney.

Hundreds of volunteers also help harvest produce at Sprout City Farms. The Denver Green School allows the farm to use to use the land which has turned out to be a major cost saving measure for the distrit. Not only is fresh produce donated for the students to eat during lunch, but it saves the school from using sprinklers to maintain the land. Instead, a drip irrigation system gives the plants the water they need. Each class is also given a plot of land to maintain and grow food on, connecting them with nature and teaching them skills often missed in classrooms.

Beyond increasing the accessibility of local fresh produce, urban farms build leadership and community. There are also several ways to get involved through volunteering or even leasing your own plot of land.

For more information on how to get involved with Ekar Farms Visit: https://sites.google.com/a/ekarfarm.org/ekar-farm/