Co-Chairs:
- Carrie Vaughn, Building Bridges Across the River
Accomplishments:
Rooting for Equity: Applied Research to Advance Urban Agriculture in Washington DC’s Affordable Housing Communities: In collaboration with the DC Office of Urban Agriculture and George Washington University, Rooting for Equity explores how urban agriculture can thrive within Washington, DC’s affordable housing communities. While the District works toward ambitious goals for both new food-growing spaces and expanded affordable housing, these priorities can be seen in competition with one another. This study examines how urban agriculture can bridge the two – improving food security, fostering community engagement, and advancing sustainability. Drawing on insights from residents, urban farmers, developers, and government officials, the research highlights current barriers, opportunities, and pathways for new collaboration. The findings emphasize the need for community-driven models, sustained investment, and policies that center equity in order to make urban agriculture a viable part of affordable housing solutions. Read the full report here. You can also watch a recording of the convening presenting the report here.
Urban Land Lease Program: With the FPC’s support and advice, the Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) and Department of General Services (DGS) are implementing the Urban Land Lease Program within the DC Urban Farming and Food Security Act of 2014 (“DC Farm Bill”) by leasing parcels of government land to farmers for free 5-13 year leases. The FPC is working with these agencies to identify more parcels to be leased.
Urban Agriculture Tax Credit: With the FPC’s support and advice, the Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) implemented the urban agriculture tax credit, approved in the DC Farm Bill, which provides a property tax abatement to private landowners that lease their property (including rooftops) for urban agriculture. 2024 was the first year this was fully utilized with more applications than money.
Infrastructure Fund: The FPC supported the creation of the Urban Agriculture Infrastructure Grant, which is now distributed through DOEE’s Office of Urban Agriculture. Those grants.
Upcoming Tours
The Urban Ag Working Group is leads tours throughout the year. Join the listserv to learn more.