The Works, Inc. hosted a Tennessee Urban Agriculture Sub-Committee meeting and on-farm workshop in Southeast Memphis

On Tuesday, April 14, The Works, Inc. hosted a Tennessee Urban Agriculture Sub-Committee meeting and on-farm workshop in Southeast Memphis, bringing together a diverse group of farmers, federal and state agriculture officials, community members, and researchers.

Participants also joined virtually from across the state, reflecting the importance of urban agriculture as a critical component of Tennessee’s food systems. The morning session featured presentations from the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, Tennessee Department of Agriculture, Xerces Society, and The Works, Inc., highlighting current programs, funding opportunities, and collaborative projects advancing sustainable and regenerative agricultural practices.

Following the indoor session, attendees transitioned into the field to explore applied examples of this work in action. The group visited the site of TWI’s partner, Regronomy, where greenhouse operations are being developed to produce tomatoes and drive innovation within the local food supply chain. The tour continued at TWI’s Works Urban Farms Knight Arnold site, where participants were introduced to a diversified agroforestry system including an apple and pear orchard, alley cropping, high tunnels, a bioswale, and thicket-style native habitat, demonstrating integrated, regenerative approaches to urban land use.

The Works, Inc. extends sincere appreciation to the Natural Resources Conservation Service for their leadership in convening this group and their continued support of small and urban agriculture initiatives. We are also grateful to Olivet Fellowship Baptist Church for providing space and hospitality, helping to create a welcoming environment for dialogue, learning, and collaboration.