The New American Farmer – Extension Engagement with Urban Agriculture and Food Systems

Authors

Margaux S. C. Robinson, University of KentuckyFollow
KC V. Cunningham, University of KentuckyFollow
Jeffery A. Young, University of KentuckyFollow
Nicole D. Breazeale, University of KentuckyFollow
Kenneth R. Jones, University of KentuckyFollow
Julie N. Zimmerman, University of KentuckyFollow

Volume

63

Issue

1

Abstract

Extension’s evolving role in urban food production will require intensive reflexivity and ongoing collaboration. Extension educators around the country have already made progress in engaging with both the social and horticultural sides of urban agriculture. Designed appropriately, urban food systems hold the potential for healthy food access, community and environmental resilience, and economic prosperity (Rangarajan & Riordan 2019). Moving forward, we offer recommendations for Extension staff to apply within their institutions and beyond. Specifically, we urge Extension to prioritize the following: 1) mediate the rural/urban dichotomy, 2) tackle structural and institutional power dynamics, and 3) intensify strategies for community resilience.

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Recommended Citation

Robinson, M. S., Cunningham, K. V., Young, J. A., Breazeale, N. D., Jones, K. R., & Zimmerman, J. N. (2025). The New American Farmer – Extension Engagement with Urban Agriculture and Food Systems. The Journal of Extension, 63(1), Article 20. https://open.clemson.edu/joe/vol63/iss1/20