Urban Farm DB
Research catalogue
Database research record2017·United States

A Preliminary Overview of Community Orcharding in the United States

Megan Betz, Jacob Mills, James Farmer

Journal of Agriculture Food Systems and Community Development

Urban Farm DB summary

This study conducted a qualitative, inductive survey of community orchard organizations in the U.S. (42.64% response rate) to establish a baseline understanding. Participants were identified via internet presence, meaning little is known about orchards without an online presence. Findings showed that community orchards are primarily established on public land, with primary motivations including environmental concern, education, and a sense of community. Organizers reported that fruit and nuts produced feed residents in the immediate surrounding area.