Julie Berbiglia tours a new community garden on the grounds of St. John AME Church in Nashville TN. The church was working toward creating a commercial kitchen, but circumstances changed. In 2020, a tornado took out the church building, and then 2 weeks later the COVID protocols were established. Partnerships were formed, the plan pivoted in scope, and now the community has an inspiring and bountiful garden. All those in the neighborhood are invited to participate in its plantings and harvest.
Tammy Algood visits the community garden near downtown Nashville known as Farm in the City. Established in 2010 by Metro Development and Housing Agency, it offers more than 50 raised beds that are open to residents of the J. Henry Hale Apartments as well as the greater community. While this spot didn't start with good soil, there is a concentrated effort to build good soil which supports a food forest and orchard.
An enthusiastic pair of young farmers focus on building the soil, knowing it will pay off year after year. There's is a no till farm. Their market garden business practice wants to be very accessible and affordable. They have chosen a more flexible business model than a traditional member-based, weekly delivery CSA.
