At a time when our community connections are strained and food security is of concern, it is inspiring to look at a program that is cultivating not just crops, but leadership. At Rainier Beach Urban Farm & Wetlands (RBUFW), young people are taking active roles to build a just and abundant food future that is vital to our sustenance and economy. They are working to develop connections with their community and farming through meaningful learning experiences in fields, farms, and kitchens.
Rainier Beach Urban Farm & Wetlands is a community hub for food, urban farming, and environmental education in Seattle’s Rainier Beach neighborhood co-operated by Tilth Alliance and Friends of Rainier Beach Urban Farm & Wetlands. Approximately half of the site is dedicated to organic food production and the other half is dedicated to restoring a natural wetlands and buffer zone.
The farm offers a variety of community education classes and workshops including growing and preserving your own food and conserving the environment. During the 2019 harvest season, the Local Food team spoke with Tilth Alliance staff to learn more about RBUFW programs, youth engagement, and what’s next for youth participants and the farm.
Read the full story on DNRP's blog here. Image of 2019 RBUFW youth employment program participants engaging in wetland restoration activities, courtesy of Suez Gebretsadik.