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RooftopActiveSince 2010

Brooklyn Grange Rooftop Farm

New York, United States · Operator: Ben Flanner, Anastasia Plakias, Gwen Schantz

Overview

NYC's largest rooftop farm spanning 5.6 acres across three locations (Astoria, Brooklyn Navy Yard, Sunset Park). Produces 80,000+ lbs of organic vegetables annually and manages 40+ honey bee hives. Operates CSA, farmers markets, restaurant supply, and wedding/event venue. Equitable Distribution Program ensures ~60% of yield reaches low-income New Yorkers at no or reduced cost.

Citizen participation

CSA shares, public farm tours, weddings and corporate events. Equitable Distribution Program provides ~60% of annual yield at no or low cost to low-income New Yorkers.

Operating model

Community-supported agriculture (CSA), farmers markets, restaurant supply, event venue rental, honey sales. Revenue partially reinvested in community food distribution.

Impact

Produces 80,000+ lbs organic vegetables annually. Demonstrates viability of large-scale urban organic rooftop farming in dense city. Model for equitable food access through community benefit programs. 40+ managed bee hives support urban pollinator populations.

Land tenure

Lease

Long-term leases with building owners. Expanded operations across multiple buildings over time.

Crops

  • kale
  • lettuce
  • arugula
  • spinach
  • tomatoes
  • herbs
  • honey
  • トマト
  • ズッキーニ
  • ナス
  • 豆類
  • 葉菜

Scale

22,626 m²5.6 acres across three rooftop locations in Brooklyn and Queens (Astoria/Long Island City, Brooklyn Navy Yard, Sunset Park)

In the media(2)

Sources(1)

This entry is compiled from the public sources, official sites and research below.

Related cases

Brooklyn Grange Rooftop Farm — Urban Farm DB