![local Florida food](/media/sfylifasufledu/orange/urban-ag/florida-food-019557-1650x470.jpg)
LOCAL FOOD SYSTEMS
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Supporting local food systems enhances the social relationships between farmers and consumers; supports small and family farmers; keeps local agricultural economies viable; maintains genetic diversity of food crops; and preserves natural resources, rural land, and wildlife spaces. An important objective of UF/IFAS Extension Orange County is to increase food security and community development by supporting a culture that celebrates our local food system.
![Urban garden](/media/sfylifasufledu/orange/urban-ag/urban-garden-700x370.jpg)
Urban Agriculture
Urban agriculture can provide healthy, local food that contributes to food security and helps to maintain additional green space. Today up to 15% of our food originates from within metropolitan areas. The contribution of urban agriculture is crucial to food security and healthy nutrition as more people live in cities than ever before.
![bees on hive](/media/sfylifasufledu/orange/urban-ag/bees-700x370.jpg)
Backyard Honey Beekeeping
Educational workshops, presentations, mentorship and outreach resources are offered for hobbyist in the areas of keeping backyard honey bees in Orange County, Florida. These programs provide research-based information to the public that emphasizes proper management of honey bees and wild bees in Florida.
![chicken](/media/sfylifasufledu/orange/urban-ag/Chicken2-700x370.jpg)
Backyard Poultry
Urban populations are becoming more aware of where and how their food is made. Due to this desire to become reacquainted with food production, backyard chickens is a growing trend within our metropolitan areas. Having chickens in their backyard is an excellent way for people to experience how their food is derived and a great opportunity to discover a walk of life they are less familiar with.
RESOURCES
- UF/IFAS