This document proposes turning a vacant lot in Reading, Pennsylvania into an urban farm called the Reading Roots Urban Farm. The lot was previously the site of homes destroyed by Hurricane Agnes in 1972 and has been empty ever since. The farm would include food and compost production, education, community engagement, and sustainability demonstrations on the site. It aims to secure access to the lot by December 2010 and have various operations up and running between March and May 2011.

1. Reading Roots
Urban Farm
Proposal
A PermaCultivate Project
info@permacultive.org
November 2010

2. The Impact of Urban Agriculture

3. The Impact of Urban Agriculture

4. The Impact of Urban Agriculture

10. Canal St Site History
Site formerly a block of homes
Wiped out by Hurricane Agnes in 1972
Land has been vacant ever since
Recently considered for
redevelopment
Most people “don’t even notice it”

13. A New Gateway Destination
Site is well-positioned for access in low-
volume area
Can serve as anchor for neighborhood
development
Will partner with Reading Rivertribe to
be a agro- and eco-tourism hub

15. Site Preparation Plans
DEP and EPA consultation
City planning and zoning approval
Provisional use lease agreement
Noise, odor, and leachate control
Parking requirements
State and municipal operating permits
Community benefits agreement

16. Elements of the Operation
Food and yard waste composting
Year-round food production
Education and training
Community engagement
Sustainability demonstrations
Remediation and beautification

17. Elements of the Operation

18. Elements of the Operation

19. Elements of the Operation

20. Elements of the Operation

21. Site Establishment Goals
Secure access as soon as possible
Break ground with event in December
Perform soil tests and grounds work
Address preparation plan over winter
Install hoop house operation in March
Begin early planting in April
Begin composting operation by May