San Francisco, the most urban county in California, is now getting its own Farm Bureau, an agricultural support organization that has significantly benefited rural counties across the state.
State Treasurer Fiona Ma, who is also a candidate for lieutenant governor, announced the formation of the San Francisco Farm Bureau on Tuesday. This organization aims to support local agriculture and improve urban food security education.
California is the top agricultural producer in the U.S., and this new bureau comes as urban farming is on the rise. With over 100 urban farms and community gardens in San Francisco, the bureau will advocate for urban agriculture and educate residents, especially the youth, about growing food.
“Realizing there wasn’t a Farm Bureau in San Francisco, where I’ve lived for over 30 years, was surprising,” Ma said. “This initiative will connect urban residents with the sources of their food, fostering essential appreciation and understanding.”
The San Francisco Farm Bureau was established after a year of planning and collaboration with local agriculture supporters and is officially chartered by the California Farm Bureau.