FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 10, 2013

CONTACT: Kimberly Haun
Staff Liaison, Urban Agriculture Initiative
DPR, Arlington County, VA
703-228-7872; khaun@arlingtonva.us


Urban Agriculture Citizen Task Force Community Conversations

The public is invited to join members of Arlington’s Urban Agriculture Initiative Citizen Task Force for a series of Community Conversations.

As part of Arlington's ongoing sustainability efforts, we will develop an inventory of existing programs, identify gaps, and explore new options – such as rooftop gardens, land exchanges, demonstration gardens, and backyard hens – and investigate issues concerning food security, health and fitness benefits. It’s called the Arlington Urban Agriculture Initiative. The goal is to bring healthy, nutritious food to the community and promote community wellness.

Bringing Urban Agriculture to one of the most densely populated counties in the United States is a huge task. Help us develop priorities that support YOUR goals. Below is a summary from the charge set before the Urban Agriculture Task Force by the Arlington County Board.
“To research best practices in sustainable urban agriculture policies, and programs and make recommendations to support, expand and integrate Arlington’s existing urban agriculture efforts consistent with our community values and adopted Vision Statement…”

Do you have ideas or questions about the many topics the Urban Ag Task Force should address? You are invited to participate in our series of Community Conversations, where you can meet with Task Force members who are eager for your input.

The Community Conversations will be held in meetings across the County. Join us for one or all. No reservations required.

January 23 – Shirlington Library, Campbell Room, 7:00 – 8:30 pm
January 26 – Westover Library, Large Meeting Room, 10:30 am - Noon
January 28 – Central Library, Auditorium, 7:30 – 9:00 pm

Take an active role through participation. Comments or questions may be emailed to Kimberly Haun, khaun@arlingtonva.us.