Allegheny County Conservation District

Urban agriculture grows more than food. It grows stronger, healthier communities. 🌱

Across Allegheny County, dedicated growers are transforming vacant lots, restoring lead contaminated soil, expanding access to fresh food, and creating neighborhoods that thrive.

During , ACCD was honored to welcome Secretary Russell Redding to tour Soil Sisters Plant Nursery, Hilltop Urban Farm, Mayfly Market, and Oasis Farm & Fishery, each showcasing the inspiring work of local farmers.

“We’re lucky to live and work in a state that understands the tremendous positive impacts of urban farming and makes regular efforts to shine a light on talented growers,” says Karlin Lamberto, ACCD Deputy Director.

Read more: www.accdpa.org/blog/urban-agriculture-week

Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture

Thank you to Secretary Russell Redding for visiting Pittsburgh to highlight the importance of healthy soil and celebrate the talented local farmers who are building stronger communities across Pennsylvania during . 🌿

Come out Saturday, July 11 to Construction Junction for Allegheny County Conservation District's Free Soil Lead Screening Pop Up Event from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM!

If you garden, farm, care for community green spaces, or are revitalizing vacant lots, this is a great opportunity to have your soil screened for lead at no cost. Testing your soil is an important first step toward creating safer, healthier outdoor spaces.

🍦 Plus, enjoy free Millie's Ice Cream from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM while supplies last!

🌱 While you're there, be sure to stop inside and check out the Responsible Wood Products we have available for purchase. Each piece is crafted from locally sourced urban wood, giving trees a second life while supporting our mission.

Learn how to collect, prepare, and label your soil sample before the event at www.accdpa.org/urban-soils-instructions.

A new City of Pittsburgh proposal would expand potential uses for city-owned land, making it possible to garden in city parks. Learn more about what these proposed changes could mean for for urban farming in Pittsburgh.

Pittsburgh City Planning proposal would expand opportunities for urban farming Legislation presented to City Council on Tuesday would make it possible to garden in city parks and hold special events in abandoned lots.

From the classroom to the field, ACCD is committed to providing educational opportunities that help protect Allegheny County’s soil and water resources. 💦

During a recent field workshop, participants stepped beyond the classroom to explore active construction sites and functioning stormwater infrastructure, seeing conservation practices in action.

Through a combination of technical instruction and hands-on learning, attendees gained insight into erosion and sediment controls, stormwater management, and strategies that help safeguard local waterways.

Find out about more training opportunities: https://www.accdpa.org/newsletter-signup