Nevada Agriculture Department to Launch Community Gardens Program in Food Deserts

In a recent meeting of the Assembly Committee on Natural Resources, Nevada lawmakers gathered to address a pressing issue affecting hundreds of thousands of residents: food deserts. Defined by the United States Department of Agriculture, food deserts are areas where low-income communities lack access to fresh food, with many residents living over a mile from a supermarket. In rural regions, this distance can stretch to 10 or even 20 miles.

The discussion highlighted successful initiatives aimed at combating food insecurity, such as the Zion Urban Farm in Southern Nevada, which features 64 irrigated raised beds, including accessible options for individuals with disabilities. Another notable project is Flint Street Farm in Downtown Reno, which transformed a former parking lot into a thriving garden that supplies food to those in need. Additionally, the food hub in Fallon, supported by nearby Latin Farms, offers affordable grocery options, allowing residents to receive a basket of fresh produce for just $35 a month.

Despite these efforts, the meeting underscored a significant gap in state-level support. While local governments have been empowered to create community gardens and urban farms, there is currently no comprehensive state program to directly address food deserts. As of 2018, estimates suggest that between 200,000 and 500,000 Nevadans live in food deserts, with over 90% residing in urban areas.

To tackle this issue, lawmakers proposed a new bill that would require the director of the State Department of Agriculture to establish a program specifically aimed at developing community gardens and urban farms in food deserts. This initiative would also allow the director to seek funding through donations and grants, enhancing resources available to combat food insecurity.

The benefits of urban farms and community gardens extend beyond just food access. They can increase property values, improve environmental conditions, and foster social connections within communities. As one lawmaker shared a personal story about her father's joy in participating in a community garden, it became clear that these initiatives not only provide fresh produce but also cultivate a sense of belonging and pride among residents.

With recent news of federal programs aimed at supporting food access being put on hold, the urgency for state-level action has never been greater. As Nevada moves forward, the proposed bill represents a crucial step in addressing the needs of communities grappling with food insecurity, ensuring that all residents have access to the fresh food they deserve.