Frontline Farming partners with Littleton to expand local agriculture and food access

The Environmental Stewardship Board Meeting held on May 7, 2025, in Littleton, Colorado, focused on enhancing local food systems and agricultural practices. Key discussions centered around the role of community-supported agriculture (CSA) and the importance of water access for farming viability.

Frontline Farming, a nonprofit organization, reported significant progress in food distribution through its CSA program, which aims to serve 90 members this year, with a goal of 25% being SNAP or WIC recipients. The organization highlighted its commitment to providing affordable food, noting that last year's CSA boxes averaged nine pounds of produce for $500 over 16 weeks. Additionally, Frontline Farming operates a program called Healing Foods, which partners with organizations serving vulnerable populations to deliver food directly to those in need, thereby reducing barriers to access.

The meeting also addressed the importance of water rights and irrigation systems for local farms. The representatives emphasized that while farm size can be flexible, water access is critical for successful agricultural practices. They discussed the incremental growth of farms, using Majestic View Farm as an example, which has expanded its operations over the years to meet community needs.

A visual presentation illustrated the existing food ecosystem in Littleton, showcasing local farmers markets, food banks, and community gardens. The discussion included potential collaborations with regional anchors like Chatfield Farms, which could help expand CSA distribution and enhance community engagement in local agriculture.

Looking ahead, the board proposed several recommendations, including revising zoning codes to facilitate urban agriculture, creating an urban agriculture plan, and establishing a monitoring system to evaluate progress. The overall goal is to integrate agriculture more deeply into the community's fabric, ensuring food security and promoting environmental stewardship.

The meeting concluded with a call for collaboration among local entities to build a sustainable food system that meets the needs of Littleton residents while honoring the area's agricultural heritage.