Urban Agriculture in Wisconsin: A Growing Impact
by Anastasia Poull
Urban agriculture, though less prominent than other Wisconsin commodities, significantly influences the state's agricultural sector. According to the USDA, it encompasses the cultivation, processing, and distribution of agricultural products for both food and non-food purposes in urban and suburban areas. This includes community gardens, rooftop farms, greenhouses, vertical production, and hydroponic and aquaponic facilities.
Beyond greenhouses and community gardens, processing and distribution centers play a crucial role in ensuring access to agricultural goods. The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization reveals that 15% to 20% of the world’s food is grown or raised in urban settings.
My visits to Milwaukee County, Wisconsin, in preparation for the 80th Alice in Dairyland Finals, brought urban agriculture into sharp focus.
Exploring the Urban Agriculture Landscape
The 2026 Milwaukee Urban AgCon, hosted by the Michael Fields Agricultural Institute, gathered urban agriculture leaders from diverse backgrounds. Among the speakers were:
- Will Allen, a Wisconsin farmer
- Sister MacCanon Brown, CEO and President of MacCanon Brown Homeless Sanctuary
- Cole Compton, Urban Farm Manager at Kinship Community Food Center
- Samuel Odin, President of the Milwaukee Food Council
- Andi Coolman, Farmers Market Hype Girl
This event, featuring speakers, workshops, and panels, significantly expanded my understanding of urban agriculture.
For instance, Kinship-Urban Farm and Just One More Ministry in Glendale, Wisconsin, contribute to food distribution. Kinship-Urban Farm cultivates thousands of pounds of fresh, organic produce through volunteer efforts and distributes it via its Community Food Center to those in need.
Farmers markets also play a vital role, connecting directly with urban agriculture. The Brown Deer Farmers Market, like many across the state, offers a platform for local farmers to sell their products, including fresh produce, honey, maple syrup, and more.
Strengthening Milwaukee's Urban Agriculture
Milwaukee County boasts a thriving urban agriculture scene. A community garden focus began in 1972, with the first Extension community garden established near the zoo interchange. Today, Extension Milwaukee County maintains 10 community gardens covering 75 acres, serving over 500 families.
Three urban agriculture programs through Extension Milwaukee County further connect residents to Wisconsin's $116.3 billion agriculture industry:
- Community Garden Rentals: Offering spaces for residents to grow their own produce.
- Beekeeping Classes: Equipping individuals with the knowledge to become certified beekeepers.
- Demonstration Farm Network: A collaborative initiative between the University of Wisconsin-Extension Community Food Systems Program and the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. This network connects farmers, researchers, and conservation experts to promote innovative practices that benefit both the environment and the community. Milwaukee's MUD is the first urban USDA demonstration network, showcasing urban agriculture conservation practices.
Extension Milwaukee County also assists with land access and technical resources, fostering urban agriculture growth.
Urban agriculture has a profound impact on our communities and industry, and I look forward to continuing to highlight this aspect of Wisconsin agriculture in Milwaukee County.
Poull is the 79th Alice in Dairyland.