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Growing Food Instead of Lawns in California Front Yards: In Los Angeles, front yards that have been transformed into tiny farms are providing fresh vegetables for dozens of families while using far less water than traditional grass lawns.
In the heart of Leimert Park in South Los Angeles, a unique structure catches the eye on a corner lot near Obama and Crenshaw Boulevards. Unlike the typical green yards in the neighborhood, this space resembles a whimsical blend of rural charm and Dr. Seuss-inspired creativity.
Clusters of grapes and blackberries intertwine along a vine, while raised garden beds yield basil, sweet potatoes, mesclun greens, and more. Of particular interest are the stacked pots, resembling bunk beds, that are overflowing with kale, cabbage, arugula, lettuce, eggplants, and an array of other leafy greens.
Jamiah Hargins, a visionary gardener, oversees this front yard farm at his residence. Through his initiative, Crop Swap LA, the farm provides fresh produce to 45 families in the vicinity, all the while conserving water compared to conventional lawns.
Spanning a modest 2,500 square feet, this microfarm serves as the nucleus of Crop Swap LA’s efforts to convert underutilized spaces into productive farms. Currently, the organization operates three front yard farms, supplying organic fruits and vegetables to 80 individuals residing within a one-mile radius. For many of these recipients, the access to fresh, home-grown produce addresses the issue of food insecurity.
Mr. Hargins, a former options trader and headhunter, stumbled upon the concept of growing his own food in 2018 out of sheer necessity. Determined to provide fresh, healthy food for his newborn daughter, he embarked on a journey that eventually gave rise to Crop Swap LA. His initial foray into gardening was rudimentary, but his dedication and experimentation led to the establishment of a flourishing microfarm.
The success of Mr. Hargins’ backyard garden prompted him to organize food swaps with fellow gardeners and neighbors, culminating in the formation of Crop Swap LA. As the project gained momentum, it evolved into a non-profit entity that operates three front yard farms in close proximity to each other.
The sustainability and efficiency of these microfarms are evident in various aspects of their operation. Mr. Hargins estimates that his microfarm consumes 98% less water than a traditional lawn, resulting in significantly lower water bills for his property. Solar panels power the farm’s operations, including a 35-pump watering system, while crops thrive in soil enriched with organic matter such as manure and rock dust.
Despite the initial investment required to establish and expand the microfarms, Mr. Hargins remains steadfast in his commitment to the project. With funding received from state grants and donations, totaling $4 million in 2021, Crop Swap LA has grown into a full-time endeavor with a dedicated team of 13 individuals. The labor-intensive nature of maintaining three farms is a labor of love for Mr. Hargins, who views the project as a vital source of sustenance for both nature and the community.
Membership in Crop Swap LA entails a weekly subscription for a bag of fresh produce, akin to a traditional farm share. While the initiative has garnered significant interest, stringent guidelines dictate eligibility for participation. Recipients must reside within a mile radius of the farms to minimize transportation emissions and ensure the food remains locally sourced. Priority is given to individuals facing economic hardships, including veterans, single parents, and marginalized populations, with a portion of members utilizing food stamps for payment.
Security concerns regarding the front yard farms have been largely unfounded, with no reported incidents of theft. The absence of traditional fences or barriers emphasizes the collaborative and communal ethos of Crop Swap LA, fostering a sense of shared responsibility and respect for the resources cultivated within the microfarms.
Beyond the confines of Mr. Hargins’ yard, Crop Swap LA has embarked on ambitious projects to expand its impact. Collaborating with community members like Mychal Creer and Beverly Lofton, the organization has transformed additional front yards into productive food gardens. The integration of rainwater catchments and solar-powered irrigation systems has maximized water efficiency while generating abundant yields of fresh produce.
Community engagement plays a pivotal role in the success of these initiatives, with volunteers and residents actively participating in the cultivation and harvest of crops. The sense of camaraderie and shared purpose fostered by Crop Swap LA transcends individual contributions, creating a vibrant ecosystem of sustainable agriculture and empowerment.
As the organization grapples with the challenges of securing sustainable funding and navigating logistical hurdles, the resilience and ingenuity of its members shine through. The dedication of individuals like Mr. Hargins and his team exemplifies the transformative potential of grassroots initiatives in addressing food insecurity and environmental sustainability.
In the midst of a vibrant and diverse neighborhood like Leimert Park, Crop Swap LA stands as a beacon of innovation and community resilience. Through the simple act of growing food instead of lawns, this grassroots movement has sown the seeds of change, inspiring neighbors to come together in cultivating a greener, healthier future for all.
