1890 Extension Efforts Transforming Urban Agriculture

By Margaret Lawrence

These Extension efforts are bringing agriculture into the heart of cities and suburbs. Dr. Raymon Shange, Tuskegee University’s 1890 Administrator, said the work at 1890 LGUs connects people to fresh, locally grown food and promotes healthy eating. 

“By integrating education, hands-on training and community engagement, Extension helps urban residents develop and share the skills and knowledge needed to grow food in these areas that face unique challenges including space constraints and soil health issues,” said Shange, who also serves as the Association of Extension Administrators chair. 

These programs support innovation and collaboration, fostering partnerships between LGUs, local governments, nonprofits and businesses to create green infrastructure, support local agriculture and revitalize urban spaces.  

“Their impact is not only seen in healthier ecosystems and improved access to nutritious food,” he said, “but also, in stronger, more connected communities prepared to face future challenges.” 

1890 Extension Urban Agriculture Recent Highlights 

• Alabama Extension at Alabama A&M University developed the Urban Green to train urban residents to manage landscapes, urban gardens and pests. Its Back-2-Basics online series delivers basic gardening and landscaping practices for people with limited space. About 40% of participants wanted to learn how to start, manage and maintain a backyard or community garden. Extension horticulture programs like Urban Green help minimize negative environmental impacts, reduce food insecurity and increase the intake of fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Let’s Grow Together, an Alcorn State University effort, is planting more than crops. It’s cultivating skills, relationships and a sense of ownership in local food systems. The series educates people in everything from soil testing and seed starting to pest management and seasonal planting strategies. It is especially appealing to home gardeners, small-scale growers and community garden volunteers.