Creating Educational & Nature Equity with an Urban Food Forest Initiative

Commodities

• Fruits: paw-paws, peaches

Practices

• Crop Production: forest farming, forestry
• Education and Training: youth education
• Farm Business Management: feasibility study
• Natural Resources/Environment: biodiversity, wildlife
• Production Systems: holistic management, organic agriculture, permaculture
• Soil Management: organic matter, soil analysis
• Sustainable Communities: analysis of personal/family life, community development, food access and security, food hubs, food sovereignty, infrastructure analysis, quality of life, sustainability measures, urban agriculture

Asibara Forest aims to educate youth on sustainable agriculture practices by creating urban food forests as an outdoor classroom. This approach enables children to learn about biodiversity, food sovereignty, and environmental stewardship in a hands-on setting, fostering a connection with nature. By nurturing this early interest, we aspire to produce environmentally conscious citizens and increase representation in STEM and conservation careers. This holistic method not only promotes ecological conservation but also generates employment opportunities, strengthens social bonds, and improves physical and mental well-being. Additionally, it empowers communities with knowledge and resources essential for sustainable living and enhanced quality of life.

1. Facilitate the engagement of 25 children in urban communities in sustainable agriculture education by establishing an urban food forested classroom, students will help with design/development through build-out and maintenance.
2. Implement two experiential learning projects that educate children about biodiversity, food sovereignty, and the importance of sustainable living. These projects will involve hands-on activities including planning, planting, nurturing, and harvesting in our urban food forest.
3. Organize two field trips to local organic farms and conservation projects, and invite farmers, grocers, and chefs to share their experiences and introduce children to career opportunities in sustainable agriculture.