During a recent government meeting, representatives from Bountiful Cities presented their initiatives aimed at enhancing food security and community engagement through urban agriculture. The outreach coordinator highlighted two key programs: the Community Garden Network and the Asheville Buncombe Food Policy Council, both of which are supported by a city contract.

The presentation outlined several actions planned for the fiscal year 2024, focusing on education, access to fresh food, and outreach to underserved neighborhoods. One significant project discussed was the maintenance and engagement of the city's edible parks, including the George Washington Carver Edible Park and the West Asheville Community Garden. Community involvement has been pivotal, with local residents participating in plant inventories and maintenance efforts.

The West Asheville Community Garden received a makeover this year, and a food forest planted a decade ago is now under the care of Bountiful Cities. Additionally, the Tempe Avery Edible Park in the Montford community hosted popular edible plant walks, attracting over 40 participants each time.

Bountiful Cities also introduced the Asheville Edibles map, a citizen science project allowing community members to document edible plants throughout the city. This initiative aims to foster a sense of community and encourage local engagement with urban agriculture.

The Community Garden Network has been active in providing educational workshops, with 11 sessions held in the past year, covering topics from seed starting to mushroom cultivation. Community potlucks and meetups have further strengthened connections among residents, blending social interaction with educational opportunities.

The Asheville Buncombe Food Policy Council, established in 2011, aims to promote policies that enhance local food production and access. This year, the council has been involved in the WNC Food Justice Planning Initiative, now known as the WNC Food Systems Coalition, and is working on emergency food planning projects in collaboration with local neighborhoods.

Overall, the meeting underscored the importance of community-driven efforts in addressing food security and fostering sustainable urban agriculture practices in Asheville.