The Wynn Urban Farm project addresses critical food insecurity in DeKalb County through innovative hydroponic farming. This initiative creates sustainable food production with minimal water and space requirements, providing fresh produce to community members in need. Our alternative farming methods incorporate hydroponic, traditional, and hybrid growing techniques. These approaches are designed to maintain a low carbon footprint. They also maximize crop yields during peak seasons.
Our Innovative Farming Approach
After consulting with the USDA, we designated our headquarters as farmland to implement non-traditional farming methods. Our setup incorporates three complementary approaches:
Hydroponic Growing
Water-based growing systems that use up to 90% less water than traditional farming while producing crops faster and with higher yields.
Traditional Methods
Soil-based growing techniques that maintain biodiversity and produce crops that require traditional root systems.
Hybrid Approaches
Innovative combinations that maximize space efficiency and resource utilization while minimizing environmental impact.
This multi-method approach allows us to grow a diverse range of crops year-round, adapting to seasonal changes while maintaining consistent production.
The USDA Partnership: Enabling Innovation
Technical Assistance
The USDA provides crucial guidance on agricultural best practices, regulatory compliance, and innovative farming techniques specifically tailored for urban environments.
Grant Opportunities
Through programs like the Urban Agriculture and Innovation Production (UAIP) grants, the USDA offers financial support for projects addressing food insecurity in urban areas.
Research Support
Access to cutting-edge agricultural research helps us optimize growing methods, crop selection, and resource efficiency.
Our partnership with the USDA has been instrumental in establishing the legal framework for our urban farm, providing access to resources that would otherwise be unavailable to traditional non-profits, and connecting us with a network of similar initiatives across the country.
Our alternative farming setup incorporates hydroponic, traditional, and hybrid growing methods to produce crops during their peak seasons and is designed to have as low of a carbon footprint as possible.
According to recent studies, DeKalb County has been designated as a food desert in multiple areas, with residents often traveling more than a mile to reach grocery stores with fresh produce. This situation creates particular hardship for those without reliable transportation, further exacerbating the crisis.
- 40% of residents in DeKalb County, GA are without access to fresh food options.
- Food insecurity is linked to higher rates of chronic diseases, including diabetes and heart disease in affected communities.
- Children, seniors, and disabled residents face disproportionate impacts from limited access to nutritious food.
How You Can Get Involved
Current Status and Future Plans
We’re currently in the process of securing grant funding to expand our operations. While produce is not yet available for distribution, we’re actively working toward that goal.
Volunteer
Sign up to help with planting, harvesting, and maintenance once operations begin. No experience necessary – we provide training!
Donate
Financial contributions help us buy equipment, seeds, and supplies needed to expand our growing capacity.
Spread the Word
Follow us on social media and share our mission with your networks to increase community awareness and support.
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