New Jersey senator: Urban farming could transform Jersey’s food deserts, fill gaps caused by federal cuts
New Jersey could make meaningful investments in urban agriculture and strengthen local food systems while continuing to support rural farmers and conserve farmland.
By Shirley K. Turner
NJ C
Oct 6, 2025
Excerpt:
Expanding urban agriculture helps fill that gap by bringing fresh, nutritious food directly into underserved neighborhoods, reducing dependence, lowering costs, and improving health outcomes.
That is why I introduced S4350, which authorizes the state and local governments to acquire and manage land for agricultural and horticultural use in urban areas. The bill connects rural and urban economies, promotes youth engagement, and strengthens environmental resilience through stormwater management and improved water quality.
Urban agriculture also reduces the heat- island effect, enhances biodiversity, improves air quality, and creates natural spaces that support the mental and physical health of residents.
Fortunately, funding is not an obstacle. Since the constitutional amendment was enacted in 2014, the State Agriculture Development Committee has continued its important work to preserve farmland across New Jersey, but structural and administrative constraints have made it difficult to fully deploy available funds.
As of April 2025, an analysis by the Office of Management and Budget showed that only 25 percent of total available funds had been requested, leaving $273 million unspent. Even when funds are allocated, there are often delays in spending. A 2023 report by the New Jersey State Auditor found that county and municipal governments had left an estimated $50 million in farmland preservation grants unused.
Read the complete article here.
Source: https://cityfarmer.info/new-jersey-senator-urban-farming-could-transform-jerseys-food-deserts-fill-gaps-caused-by-federal-cuts/
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