Metro Atlanta Counties Qualify For EPA's Local Foods Program

WASHINGTON, DC — The EPA has announced an opportunity for communities wanting to develop their own local food sources to apply for technical assistance. On Tuesday, the EPA said the program is being offered through the Trump administration’s executive order on promoting agriculture and rural prosperity in America. The assistance will be provided through the Local Foods, Local Places (LFLP) program. A list of the communities in which the assistance will be offered shows all metro Atlanta counties can qualify.

“By helping communities grow their local food system, LFLP helps improve people’s health, their environment, and the economy,” said EPA Regional Administrator Pete Lopez. “EPA is providing opportunities for more communities, particularly those in Opportunity Zones and other disadvantaged areas, by providing technical assistance and the expertise needed to provide access to healthier, locally produced food.”

The Atlanta city council has already approved the transformation of more than seven acres of southwest Atlanta land into the nation's largest food forest. The land is located near the Lakewood Fairgrounds and Browns Mill Golf Course, into a public park and garden. The legislation was sponsored by District 1 councilwoman Carla Smith, who has been a longtime advocate for green, environmentally conscious measures.

Trees Atlanta will manage, staff and maintain the project, as well as raise money and apply for additional grants.

More: Atlanta Creates Nation's Largest 'Food Forest'

Earlier this year, Lyft announced a partnership with the city's One Atlanta Office to make it easier for families living in Atlanta's "food deserts" (under-resourced communities) to access nutritious groceries. The pilot program will provide some affected residents with heavily discounted Lyft rideshare credits to nearby farmers markets and grocery stores.

And: Lyft, Atlanta Partner To Bring Healthy Options To 'Food Deserts'

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), food deserts are defined as low-income communities lacking a one-mile radius to the closest supermarket or grocery store. In a 2017 report, 36% of Atlanta was classified as a food desert. By population in 2018, approximately 128,000 or 25% of Atlanta residents have to travel more than a half-mile to access fresh fruit and vegetables.