Local Food Systems

Customers at a local famers market.

Food systems can be very complex. From growing the food we eat, to processing, packaging, transportation and end sales, food can travel long miles to reach your plate. These processes use a lot of water, energy and vehicle fuel to bring food to the table, and thinking locally can help reduce your environmental food-print.

What We Want to Accomplish

The city is working towards a local food system that encompasses the entire cycle of food production and consumption, including growing, transporting and the use of disposal. The goals below are focused on our commitment to increased food production:

Metrics  2010 (Baseline)  2018 (Targets)  2040 (Goals) 
Community Garden Plots 159  500  1,000 
Farmers Markets  10+  20+ 
Food Hub  5+ 
Local Food Distributors  3+ 3+ 
Urban Farms  10+ 

South Street Farm

Located at 626 West South Street, this quarter acre lot was the launching point of the Orlando Urban Agriculture Program and has been providing residents within the West Orlando area quick, convenient access to low-cost fresh produce. This quarter acre green space provides opportunities for local businesses and entrepreneurs to grow their gardening and farming organizations, where the city is committed to creating educational opportunities in sustainable initiatives for our residents.

McQuigg Farm and Community Garden

This newly located urban agriculture area showcases innovative farming and gardening opportunities through these three areas of open green spaces located along McQuigg Street, across from Callahan Neighborhood Center. This farm and community garden is available for visitors to see the use of hydroponics, composting and off the grid energy production through solar panels which aid in the production of fruits and vegetables.