The Urban Farm

Turning dirt into farmland
to benefit local food banks

An innovative urban agriculture project, spearheaded by Seattle University’s Environmental Studies program, is helping to put fresh produce on the table for families in need in the Puget Sound region.

The Urban Farm, located on the site of the King County South Treatment Plant, combines the best of all worlds. The Urban Farm was created on unused King County land. After the area was cleared of debris and fortified with nutrient-rich soils, fruits and vegetables were planted. The first crops were planted in January 2011.

This collaborative effort between the King County Wastewater Treatment Division and the Environmental Studies Program produced almost 7,000 pounds of produce in its first year. All produce was distributed to local food banks. That number was expected to double by the end of 2012.

Students participate in the Urban Farm as part of regular coursework in sustainable agriculture or as volunteers.

The Urban Farm is generously supported by Wells Fargo, GroCo, and the Henderson Foundation.

Quick Facts

Seattle University's Urban Farm from First Sight Productions on Vimeo.