Podcast: Urban farms are sprouting in Pittsburgh's food deserts

Urban farms are emerging across the country.

“There’s been a food revolution going on for quite a while,” says Mchezaji “Che” Axum, director of the Center for Urban Agriculture and Gardening Education at the University of the District of Columbia.

Interest in growing local food has surged over the past decade, particularly during the covid-19 pandemic, when food insecurity became a pressing issue in many communities.

Urban gardens are not just a source of food — they also foster education and community engagement.

In this episode, TribLive staff writer Julia Burdelski and I explore the growing need for urban farming among new green thumbs. We’ll highlight the journeys of budding local urban farmers, including Ebony, who transformed her backyard gardening into two urban farms and a small store. Join us as we delve into how urban farming can enhance food accessibility and strengthen community bonds.