Supporting Policy Changes That Reflect Modern Agricultural Realities

Supporting Policy Changes That Reflect Modern Agricultural Realities

Agriculture is no longer confined to vast rural landscapes. Today’s farmers include urban growers, hydroponic producers, community garden coordinators, and small-scale regenerative farmers. However, agricultural policies often fail to recognize these modern farming realities, making it difficult for innovative farmers to access the resources, funding, and protections they need. To build a sustainable and resilient food system, we must advocate for policy changes that support all forms of agriculture.

Why Agricultural Policy Needs to Evolve

The traditional policy framework was designed with large-scale, industrial farming in mind. This outdated approach:

  • Limits urban and small-scale farmers' access to grants, loans, and subsidies.

  • Creates zoning restrictions that prohibit food production in non-traditional spaces.

  • Favors commodity crops over diversified, local food systems.

  • Fails to address climate resilience, sustainability, and equitable land access.

"We need policies that reflect the realities of today’s farmers—not just those who farm vast acres but also those who grow food in backyards, rooftops, and community spaces." — Karen Gordon, Co-founder, Growing Augusta

Key Policy Changes Needed

1. Updating Zoning Laws to Allow Urban and Small-Scale Farming

Many cities still classify farming as an industrial activity, restricting its presence in urban areas. Zoning reforms should:

  • Allow food production in residential and mixed-use areas.

  • Create “agriculture-friendly” designations for community gardens and urban farms.

  • Support rooftop and vertical farming initiatives in densely populated areas.

2. Expanding Access to Grants and Financial Support

Federal and state funding opportunities heavily favor large agricultural operations, leaving small and urban farmers without crucial financial support.

Key Actions:

  • Modify USDA and state agricultural grants to include small-scale and urban farms.

  • Offer micro-loans for beginning farmers who use regenerative and sustainable practices.

  • Develop financial incentives for local food production to improve food security.

3. Recognizing and Supporting Alternative Farming Models

Modern agriculture includes hydroponics, aquaponics, permaculture, and cooperative farming—yet many policies do not account for these models.

Policy Recommendations:

  • Establish clear legal definitions for nontraditional farming to ensure inclusion in agricultural programs.

  • Provide research funding for alternative growing methods.

  • Encourage public-private partnerships that integrate innovative farming into urban planning.

4. Ensuring Land Access and Protection for Small Farmers

Land speculation, development pressures, and high costs make it difficult for new and small-scale farmers to secure long-term growing space.

Policy Solutions:

  • Establish land trust programs that protect farmland for small growers.

  • Provide tax incentives for property owners who lease land to small-scale farmers.

  • Implement long-term lease agreements for urban agricultural projects on public land.

5. Addressing Climate Resilience in Agricultural Policies

Climate change is reshaping agriculture, yet policies have been slow to adapt. Future-focused policies must:

  • Promote soil conservation and regenerative agriculture practices.

  • Expand funding for water-efficient farming systems, such as drip irrigation and rainwater harvesting.

  • Support climate adaptation initiatives, including diversified cropping systems and carbon sequestration incentives.

Advocacy and Action: How to Push for Policy Change

While large-scale agribusinesses have lobbying power, small and urban farmers must collectively advocate for their needs. Here’s how:

  • Engage with Local Representatives: Attend city council meetings and advocate for urban farming-friendly zoning reforms.

  • Join Agricultural Advocacy Groups: Organizations like the National Young Farmers Coalition and state-level farming associations push for policy changes that benefit small growers.

  • Educate Policymakers: Provide legislators with data on the economic, environmental, and social benefits of small-scale and urban agriculture.

  • Vote for Food-Focused Policies: Support ballot measures and candidates who prioritize sustainable agriculture and food access.

Building an Inclusive Agricultural Future

Supporting policy changes that reflect modern agricultural realities isn’t just about helping farmers—it’s about strengthening local economies, improving food access, and making agriculture more sustainable. With the right policies in place, urban and small-scale farmers can thrive, ensuring that fresh, local food is available to all communities.

Join the Movement

Want to help shape the future of agricultural policy? Connect with others advocating for change and share your voice at Growing Augusta: Arts, Agriculture, & Agency. Together, we can create a food system that works for everyone.


K Gordon