The Urban Farm Podcast with Greg Peterson

Urban Farm Team
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Welcome to The Urban Farm Podcast, your partner in the Grow Your Own Food revolution! This audio only podcast features special guests like Rosemary Morrow, Zach Loeks, and Andrew Millison as we discuss the art and value of growing food in urban areas. We'll explore topics such as gardening basics, urban beekeeping and chicken farming, permaculture, successful composting, monetizing your farm, and much more! Each episode will bring you tips and tricks on how to overcome common challenges, opportunities to learn from the experience of people just like you, and plenty of resources to ensure you're informed, equipped, and empowered to participate more mindfully in your local food system... and to have a great time doing it! Support our Podcast and listen Ad-Free! Visit www.urbanfarm.org/patron for more information and see what else we include.

  1. 2 DAYS AGO

    983: Building Community Through Garden Exchange Stands with Dephane Weaver

    In this episode, Greg Peterson sits down with DePhane Weaver, founding president of the Garden Exchange Stands organization, to explore how neighborhood seed and plant sharing can strengthen local food systems and reconnect communities. Inspired by family traditions of gardening and generosity, DePhane shares how a simple neighborhood exchange evolved into a nonprofit network with hundreds of garden stands across Arizona and beyond. The conversation dives into food sovereignty, community resilience, pollinator support, permaculture principles, and the joy of sharing seeds, plants, tools, and gardening knowledge. DePhane explains how Garden Exchange Stands helps neighbors connect through a global interactive map and volunteer-driven community network. This episode is a powerful reminder that growing food is about more than harvests — it’s about relationships, local resilience, and creating spaces where people can give, learn, and belong. Our Guest: DePhane is the founding president of the Garden Exchange stands organization, inspired by family tradition of gardening and community service to FE champions, seed and plant sharings as a timeless way to connect neighbors, support wildlife and grow local food. Through a global map of exchange stands, the organization helps communities build gardens and a food sovereignty network. Key TopicsGarden Exchange Stands nonprofitCommunity-based seed and plant sharingFood sovereignty and local food systemsNeighborhood garden exchange networksPollinator-friendly gardeningPermaculture-inspired community designSeed saving and seed stewardshipFree garden exchange stands and seed librariesBuilding resilient neighborhood communitiesGardening as a tool for connectionVolunteer-driven nonprofit organizingSharing herbs, cuttings, tools, and garden suppliesInteractive global garden stand mappingSustainable living and wildlife habitat gardening Key Questions AnsweredWhat is a Garden Exchange Stand?A Garden Exchange Stand is a neighborhood sharing station where people exchange seeds, plants, herbs, gardening tools, books, and other garden-related items for free. Some are permanent outdoor structures while others are portable or seasonal. How did Garden Exchange Stands begin?The project started organically when DePhane hosted seed and plant exchanges at her home. Leftover plants and supplies were placed near a neighborhood bench for others to take, eventually evolving into a larger community-driven nonprofit network. Why are garden exchange networks important?They strengthen local communities, encourage food production, reduce waste, support pollinators, and create opportunities for neighbors to connect through gardening and shared resources. How do people find exchange stands?Garden Exchange Stands uses an interactive online map where users can search by city, stand name, or location to find participating stands and seed-sharing sites. What kinds of items are exchanged?Participants share seeds, seedlings, herbs, cuttings, tools, gardening books, shade cloth, baskets, aprons, painted rocks, and seasonal harvests. Can people participate even if they live in an HOA?Yes. Many participants create small movable stands or seed libraries that fit HOA guidelines while still serving their local community. How does the organization support community resilience?The network encourages local food production, seed saving, pollinator habitat creation, and community cooperation — all key components of resilient local food systems. What role do volunteers play in the organization?The entire network is volunteer-powered. Volunteers help moderate groups, maintain stands, move plants between locations, host events, and support educational workshops. Why are herbs recommended for beginner gardeners?Herbs are inexpensive to grow, easy to maintain, highly productive, and useful for cooking and wellness. DePhane especially recommends rosemary and basil for beginners. What larger mission drives the organization?The mission centers on reconnecting people through gardening, sharing abundance, supporting wildlife, and rebuilding a culture of local food production and neighbor-to-neighbor generosity. Episode HighlightsDePhane shares how her family’s gardening traditions inspired the creation of Garden Exchange Stands.The organization now supports hundreds of exchange locations throughout Arizona and additional stands across the United States.Garden stands operate similarly to Little Free Libraries, but for seeds, plants, and gardening supplies.Community members help maintain stands by watering plants, tidying displays, and redistributing excess supplies.The nonprofit promotes pollinator habitats alongside food production and seed saving.A Mother Earth News feature helped expand awareness of the movement into other states.Volunteers regularly transport plants and cuttings between cities to support gardeners across the region.DePhane explains how gardening creates lasting emotional connections between neighbors and communities. ResourcesGarden Exchange Stands Arizona Garden Exchange Stands Facebook Group Seed Library Network Book Recommendation — The Complete Book of Herbs by Leslie Bremness Visit www.urbanfarm.org/GardenExhangeStands for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges.You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more! *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

    31 min

  2. 1 MAY

    982: Local Seeds Build Global Food Security

    With Host Greg Peterson and Guests Bill McDorman and Rebecca Newburn Find our monthly Seed Chat at SeedChat.org In This Podcast: This episode of Seed Chat explores the future of seed sovereignty through two connected lenses: grassroots seed libraries and the global seed banking system. Greg Peterson is joined by Bill McDorman and special guest Rebecca Newburn to examine how communities can steward seeds locally while industrial institutions struggle to preserve crop diversity at scale. Rebecca shares how the seed library movement has grown into a global network and why the next challenge is helping communities “close the loop” by saving and returning seeds. Bill then zooms out to explain the history, promise, and limitations of international seed banks—and why local seed stewardship may be our most resilient path forward. Key Topics Seed Library NetworkCommunity seed librariesSeed saving educationCGIAR international gene banksGlobal Crop Diversity TrustSvalbard Global Seed VaultGRIN (Genetic Resources Information Network)Regional seed co-opsClimate adaptation through seed diversitySnake River Seed CooperativeUtopian Seed Project Key Questions Answered How do seed libraries actually strengthen local food systems? Seed libraries give communities free access to seeds while rebuilding the habit of growing, saving, and sharing locally adapted crops. Their long-term value is not just seed distribution, it is creating local resilience through community stewardship and regional seed knowledge. What makes a seed library successful over time? The strongest seed libraries are sustained by committed people, clear systems, and community participation. Whether run by one passionate organizer or a collective, successful libraries create pathways for education, local seed donations, and long-term stewardship. What does it mean to “close the loop” in a seed library? It means moving beyond simply borrowing and planting seeds. A resilient seed library teaches people how to save seeds, clean them, label them, and return them so the system becomes regenerative instead of extractive. What is CGIAR and why does it matter? CGIAR is a global agricultural research network that manages 11 major international gene banks holding hundreds of thousands of seed accessions. These collections preserve crop diversity and serve as a global backup for agriculture, but they are increasingly underfunded and difficult to access. Why are global seed banks under pressure? Major seed banks face chronic funding shortages, institutional bottlenecks, and climate-related risks. Even the world’s largest backup systems, including Svalbard, are vulnerable to warming temperatures, infrastructure strain, and political instability. Why is local seed saving becoming more urgent? As climate disruption, fertilizer shortages, and industrial fragility intensify, communities will need crops adapted to local conditions. Local seed saving builds food security, preserves biodiversity, and gives communities direct control over future growing conditions. What role do regional seed companies and seed co-ops play? Regional seed companies and co-ops bridge the gap between grassroots seed libraries and commercial distribution. They grow regionally adapted seed at scale, distribute locally, and help create more durable seed infrastructure. Why does Bill argue that “nobody’s coming”? Bill’s central argument is that communities cannot rely solely on governments, institutions, or global systems to protect seed diversity. The responsibility for preserving and adapting seeds increasingly falls to local growers, seed savers, and regional networks. Episode Highlights Rebecca Newburn explains how seed libraries have evolved from a novel idea into a global movement with thousands of community-led seed libraries. Seed libraries succeed when they move beyond free seed distribution and teach people how to save and return seeds. Rebecca shares new downloadable “zines” designed to help gardeners plant, save, and return seeds with clear instructions. Bill outlines how CGIAR’s global gene banks were built to preserve crop diversity but now struggle with access, staffing, and long-term funding. The Global Crop Diversity Trust still lacks the endowment needed to sustainably maintain major international seed collections. Bill argues that climate resilience depends on getting seed diversity back into the hands of growers, not just preserving it in vaults. Regional seed banks and co-ops may offer a more resilient model than centralized institutions alone. Collaboration—not competition—is framed as the cultural shift needed to rebuild seed resilience at scale. Resources Find out about Seed libraries — Seed Library Network Monthly Seed chat — Urban Farm Seed Chat Podcast Archive — Urban Farm Podcast Newsletter — Seed Library Network Substack Regional Seed Inspiration — Snake River Seed Cooperative Regional Seed Inspiration — Utopian Seed Project Visit UrbanFarm.org/982 for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more!*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

    47 min

  3. 24 APR

    981: Who Owns the World's Seeds with Bill McDorman

    This Seed Chat explores the growing consolidation of global seed ownership and the implications of patenting life. Farmer Greg and Bill McDorman dive into the history of seed patent law, the rise of corporate control, and the tension between industrial agriculture and traditional seed saving. They highlight global efforts, especially in Europe, to resist seed patents and protect biodiversity. The episode emphasizes seed saving as both a practical skill and a powerful act of resilience and autonomy. Key TopicsCorporate consolidation of global seed ownershipSeed patenting and intellectual property rightsSupreme Court case Diamond v. Chakrabarty (1980)Plant Variety Protection Act (PVPA)Utility patents vs. plant breeder protectionsEuropean coalition: No Patents on SeedsRole of NGOs and international advocacyOpen Source Seed Initiative (OSSI)Center for Food Safety legal effortsETC Group and global seed policy researchOrganic Seed Alliance publicationsSeed saving as resistance and resilienceGenetic diversity and climate adaptationIndustrial agriculture vs. small-scale seed saving Key Questions AnsweredWho controls the world’s seeds?A small number of multinational corporations dominate the global seed market, controlling a significant percentage of commercial seed distribution. This concentration is driven by mergers, acquisitions, and patent protections that favor industrial agriculture. How did seed patenting become legal?The 1980 Supreme Court ruling in Diamond v. Chakrabarty opened the door for patenting living organisms. This decision enabled utility patents on seeds, allowing companies to claim ownership over genetically modified—and later even conventionally bred—plants. What was the original compromise to protect seed breeders?The Plant Variety Protection Act (PVPA) provided a 20-year protection period for breeders while still allowing farmers to save seeds and researchers to use protected varieties. This balance has been eroded by utility patents. Why are seed patents controversial?Seed patents restrict farmers from saving seeds and limit other breeders from using patented genetics. This undermines traditional agricultural practices and reduces biodiversity. What is being done globally to resist seed patents?Organizations like No Patents on Seeds in Europe mobilize public campaigns, monitor patent filings, and challenge approvals. Coalitions of NGOs are working to influence policy and raise awareness. What is the Open Source Seed Initiative?OSSI is a movement that protects seeds from patenting by creating a legal framework that ensures varieties remain freely available for use, breeding, and saving. Why is seed saving important?Seed saving preserves genetic diversity, strengthens local food systems, and gives growers autonomy. It’s a foundational practice that has sustained agriculture for over 10,000 years. Is seed saving difficult?No—contrary to common belief, seed saving is simple at a small scale. The complexity often associated with it comes from industrial agriculture requirements, not backyard or community gardening. Episode HighlightsGlobal seed ownership is increasingly concentrated among a few corporations.The 1980 Supreme Court ruling enabled the patenting of life forms.The PVPA once balanced breeder rights with farmer freedoms.Utility patents now restrict both seed saving and research.European NGOs have mobilized hundreds of thousands against seed patents.Seed saving is accessible, resilient, and historically proven.Genetic diversity is critical for adapting to climate change.Local seed saving builds community and food sovereignty. Calls to Action & ResourcesJoin Live Seed Chats - https://seedchat.orgLearn about seed freedom advocacy - https://www.no-patents-on-seeds.orgExplore open-source seeds - https://osseeds.orgSupport legal advocacy - https://www.centerforfoodsafety.orgNo Patents On Seeds - https://www.no-patents-on-seeds.org/enOrganic Seed Alliance - https://seedalliance.org/A Guide to Seed Intellectual Property Rights - https://seedalliance.org/publications/a-guide-to-seed-intellectual-property-rights/Penn Parmenter - https://www.pennandcordsgarden.com/Seed The Untold Story - https://www.seedthemovie.comEmail Bill at elmoclap@proton.me   Canada National Farmers Union - Save Our Seed - https://www.nfu.ca/learn/save-our-seed/Seed Change - https://weseedchange.org/etc Group - Research global seed policy — https://www.etcgroup.org Visit UrbanFarm.org/981 for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more!*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

    36 min

  4. 17 APR

    980: Free Water From You Home with Brad Lancaster

    A Rosie On The House Replay This episode explores practical, low-cost strategies for reusing household gray water to irrigate landscapes. Brad Lancaster shares decades of experience designing regenerative water systems in dryland environments, emphasizing simple gravity-fed solutions over complex infrastructure. The conversation highlights how homeowners can dramatically reduce water use by “stacking functions” and capturing water already on-site. By pairing gray water with rainwater harvesting, households can meet most or all of their irrigation needs.  Brad Lancaster runs a successful permaculture consulting design and education business in Tucson, Arizona. He's focused on integrated and sustainable approaches to landscape design, planning and living. Growing up in a dryland environment, water harvesting has long been one of his specialties and a true passion. He's the author of the Permaculture Bible for Water Harvesting, Rainwater Harvesting for Drylands and Beyond, Volumes One and Two. And he has just released new color versions, revised and expanded of both of them. Key Topics Gray water (definition and household sources)Difference between gray water and black waterBrad Lancaster (water harvesting expert)Rainwater harvesting systemsGravity-fed irrigation designSoil as a living filtration systemMulch basins and infiltration strategiesLaundry-to-landscape systemsOutdoor shower gray water reuseWater conservation in dryland climatesArizona gray water regulations (13 guidelines)Soap and detergent impacts (salt vs liquid)Planting water before plants (design philosophy)Evapotranspiration and passive cooling Key Questions Answered What is gray water and how much of household water does it represent? Gray water is lightly used water from showers, sinks, bathtubs, and washing machines. It represents a significant portion of household water use—nearly equal to outdoor irrigation demand—making it a major opportunity for reuse. Is gray water safe to use in the landscape? Yes, when basic guidelines are followed. Avoid toxins, prevent pooling, and distribute water across multiple areas. Soil biology naturally filters the water, making it safe for fruit trees and many landscape plants. How can homeowners start using gray water cheaply and easily? Simple systems like redirecting a washing machine hose or using an outdoor shower can send water directly to plants using gravity. No pumps, tanks, or complex filtration systems are needed. What soaps and products should be used with gray water systems? Liquid soaps are preferred over powdered detergents because they contain fewer salt-based fillers. Avoid chlorine bleach and opt for hydrogen peroxide alternatives to protect soil health. Why shouldn’t gray water be stored in tanks? Stored gray water quickly turns septic due to organic matter, creating odor and health issues. It’s best used immediately by directing it into soil systems. How does combining gray water and rainwater maximize impact? Together, they can meet nearly all irrigation needs for a landscape, especially with low-water-use plants. This reduces reliance on municipal water and increases resilience. What does “plant the water first” mean? Design the landscape to capture and infiltrate water using basins and contours before planting. This ensures plants receive consistent moisture naturally. Where should plants be placed in a water-harvesting landscape? Higher water-use plants should be placed near water sources like roofs or gray water outlets. Trees should be positioned for shade and cooling benefits, especially on east and west sides of buildings. Episode Highlights Gray water is “perennial water”—it flows daily as long as you live in your homeYou’ve already paid for this water—reuse it instead of sending it to the sewerA simple laundry system can irrigate multiple trees by rotating a drain hoseSoil acts as a living sponge and filter, outperforming mechanical systemsOutdoor showers can double as irrigation systems and cooling zones for animalsAvoid overcomplication—gravity systems are cheaper, more reliable, and effectiveCapturing both rainwater and gray water can eliminate most irrigation needsWater harvesting landscapes create cooler microclimates and support biodiversity Calls to Action & Resources Brad Lancaster Resources — https://www.harvestingrainwater.com YouTube Channel — Search “Brad Lancaster water harvesting” Books — Rainwater Harvesting for Drylands and Beyond (Volumes 1 & 2) Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/980 for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more!*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

    37 min

  5. 10 APR

    979: From Forest to Farm: Chris Parker’s Fungal Innovations

    In this Episode Christopher Parker shares his lifelong journey into mycology, rooted in growing up in the forests of Western North Carolina and decades of hands-on experience. He explains how fungi underpins life on Earth, drives soil fertility, and plays a critical role in regenerative agriculture. The conversation explores low-tech mushroom cultivation, indigenous ecological knowledge, and how working with fungi can create resilient, localized food systems. Christopher also highlights practical ways to grow mushrooms, restore ecosystems, and build livelihoods rooted in land stewardship. Our Guest: Christopher Parker is a member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, he is a farmer, educator, and myco-culture keeper with over 30 years of experience in Indigenous regenerative agriculture and mushroom cultivation. He co-founded The Forest Farmacy, an Indigenous-led mushroom school rooted in the Cherokee homeland of Western North Carolina. Chris teaches applied eco-mycology—weaving traditional forest-tending knowledge with modern cultivation science to heal ecosystems and strengthen food sovereignty. His work centers on low-tech, scalable cultivation that transforms farm and forest byproducts into gourmet and medicinal mushrooms. Through his teaching and mentorship, he helps farmers and land stewards create ecologically sound, culturally rooted, and economically resilient livelihoods. Key Topics & EntitiesChristopher ParkerIndigenous regenerative agricultureMushroom cultivation (low-tech and scalable)Mycology and soil microbiologyMycorrhizal fungi (ecto & endo)Food sovereignty and local food systemsForest farming and ecosystem restorationTrichoderma and soil regenerationKorean Natural Farming (KNF)Biochar and microbial inoculationMushroom cultivation on logs and sawdustThe Forest FarmacyThe Mycelial Healer (book)Radical Mycology (book by Peter McCoy) Key Questions AnsweredWhy does fungi matter in soil and regenerative agriculture? Fungi act as the “underground economy,” moving nutrients, water, and minerals between soil and plants. They unlock nutrients already present in the soil, reducing or eliminating the need for external fertilizers. Can healthy soil eliminate the need for fertilizers? Yes. When fungal and microbial life is balanced, natural processes provide nutrients to plants, dramatically reducing inputs and allowing nature to do the heavy lifting. How do mushrooms actually grow and function? The visible mushroom is only the fruiting body. Most of the organism exists as mycelium within logs or soil, breaking down organic matter and cycling nutrients. What is a simple way to start growing mushrooms? Low-tech methods like inoculating logs, pasteurizing straw, or using simple heat sources can produce mushrooms without expensive equipment. How can mushroom cultivation support regenerative farming? Spent mushroom substrates and even contaminated batches can be repurposed to build soil biology, suppress pathogens, and enhance fertility. What role does observation play in successful growing? Careful observation of natural systems—like how fungi interact with insects, trees, and decay—reveals cultivation insights that can outperform conventional methods. What are common failures in mushroom cultivation? Certain species like maitake and chicken of the woods are difficult to grow on logs using standard methods. Understanding their natural ecology can unlock success. How can farmers integrate fungi into their systems? By using local fungi, building soil biology, and incorporating techniques like KNF and biochar inoculation, farmers can regenerate land while producing food. Episode HighlightsFungi and bacteria underpin all life on EarthMushrooms are just the “fruit”—most life is hidden as myceliumHealthy soil biology can eliminate fertilizer needsLow-tech mushroom growing is accessible to anyoneContaminated mushroom bags can regenerate soil via biocharObservation of nature led to breakthroughs in cultivation methodsIndigenous knowledge and modern science can work togetherStart small, learn deeply, and scale gradually Calls to Action & ResourcesThe Forest Farmacy — https://theforestfarmacy.com Christopher's Book: The Mycelial Healer — Available via Chelsea Green Publishing Course — Year-long mushroom cultivation program HERE Christophers Book Recommendation -  Paul Stamets, Growing Gourmet Medicinal Mushrooms and  Radical Mycology by Peter McCoy Show Notes — https://urbanfarm.org/forestfarmacy Visit www.urbanfarm.org/ForestFarmacy for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more! *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

    40 min

  6. 3 APR

    978: Building the largest worm farm in the U.S. with Zach Brooks

    In this Episode Zach Brooks shares how he transformed a barren cotton field into the thriving Arizona Worm Farm which is now one of the largest worm composting operations in the U.S. What began as a personal experiment in sustainability evolved into a regenerative, off-grid-inspired ecosystem that converts waste into soil, food, and community education. Zach explains how worms, compost, and black soldier flies work together to rebuild soil and produce nutrient-dense food. The conversation highlights practical, scalable solutions for local food systems using simple, accessible technologies. Our Guest:  Zach semi-retired from healthcare management at the age of 42 when his consulting company went public, and when his first of three grandchildren were born, he went back to Arizona State University to get a second master's degree in sustainability. Frustrated that most causes of climate change were not only fixable, but fixable with off the shelf practices and technology, Zach set out to prove that an off-grid lifestyle could be every bit as comfortable as a wasteful lifestyle and have a positive impact on the environment. And the most exciting thing...Zach has now built Arizona Worm Farm into one of the largest most successful worm farms in the United States. What is the Arizona Worm Farm? A regenerative, working farm designed to turn food waste into compost, soil fertility, and food production while educating the community on sustainable gardening practices. How did Zach Brooks get started in worm farming? After a career in healthcare, Zach pursued a sustainability degree and became motivated to address climate challenges using practical, existing solutions. He started by rebuilding dead soil using worms. How large has the operation become? The farm produces over 4.5 million worms annually, supports thousands of customers, and manages millions more worms dedicated to compost production. What role do worms play in soil regeneration? Worms convert organic matter into nutrient-rich castings filled with beneficial microbes that improve soil health, fertility, and plant growth. What do the worms eat at scale? Primarily pre-composted organic waste, including horse manure, landscape waste, and pre-consumer food scraps from caterers and food processors. Why is local composting important? Fresh, local compost contains active microbial life and reduces landfill waste, creating a closed-loop system that supports local food production. What are black soldier flies and why are they important? They are composting insects whose larvae consume waste rapidly and convert it into high-quality protein for animals, offering a sustainable alternative feed source. What makes Arizona Worm Farm a “one-stop shop” for gardeners? It combines education, compost, worms, plant starts, and regenerative techniques to help people successfully grow food at home. How does the farm generate revenue beyond worms? Through classes, compost products, plant starts, and value-added inputs like worm tea and insect-based fertilizers. What is the long-term vision behind the farm? To demonstrate that regenerative, self-sustaining systems can support communities using simple inputs like sunlight, water, and organic waste. Episode HighlightsBuilt from a dead cotton field into a regenerative ecosystemScaled from 400,000 to 4.5 million worms annuallyProduces 80,000 worms per week through controlled breedingDiverts large volumes of food waste from landfillsIntegrates composting, aquaponics, and food forestsHosts highly sought-after, sold-out educational classesProduces 400–800 lbs of insect protein weekly via black soldier fliesDemonstrates year-round food production in a desert climate Key TopicsArizona Worm FarmZach BrooksWorm composting (vermiculture)Black soldier fly larvae systemsRegenerative agricultureSoil microbiology & soil food webComposting systems (hot compost + worm compost)Food waste diversionOff-grid living systemsAquaponics integrationSeasonal planting strategiesUrban farming education programsLocal food systems & backyard gardeningSustainable protein production (insects) ResourcesArizona Worm Farm — https://arizonawormfarm.comShow Notes — https://urbanfarm.org/azWormFarmClasses & Workshops — Available via website mailing listSelf-Guided Farm Tours — Visit in South Phoenix Visit www.urbanfarm.org/AZWormFarm for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more! *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

    31 min

  7. 27 MAR

    977: Six Ways to Build Resilient Food Systems and Lives with Scott Murray

    In this Episode Greg and Scott explore the concept of resiliency through both human behavior and regenerative farming systems. Scott Murray shares practical strategies for adapting to stress, uncertainty, and environmental challenges while building stronger personal and agricultural systems. The conversation connects biological resilience, seen in ecosystems and farms, to everyday preparedness, food security, and mindset. Listeners walk away with six actionable ways to improve resilience in their homes, gardens, and lives. Our Guest: Scott Murray has over 50 years of experience in organic agriculture across the U.S. and Mexico and has served as a California conservation official for 33 years. He specializes in farm creation, farmland preservation, and regenerative polyculture systems. Scott now leads pioneering research and consulting on California-grown coffee, managing multi-variety trials and agroforestry-based plantations. Key TopicsResiliency (human and ecological definitions)Carrying capacity in biological systemsRegenerative farming principlesPolyculture vs monoculture systemsWater management and irrigation strategiesSoil health and biological farmingOrganic vs chemical agriculture debateFood security and home food productionCut-and-come-again gardening methodEmergency preparedness (food, water, go-bags)Decentralized food systems and local resilienceMindset and mental preparedness What is resiliency and how does it apply to daily life? Resiliency is the ability to adapt and recover from stress, adversity, or disruption. Like a rubber band returning to its original shape, humans can build emotional, mental, and behavioral flexibility to regain balance after challenges. How does resiliency show up in farming systems? In agriculture, resiliency comes from designing balanced ecosystems with diversity, proper water management, and healthy soil biology. Farms that mimic natural systems are better able to withstand environmental and economic shocks. Why is polyculture more resilient than monoculture? Polyculture systems grow multiple crops together, creating layered ecosystems that reduce risk, improve soil health, and increase productivity. If one crop fails, others can still thrive, ensuring more stable yields. Can organic systems produce enough food? Yes. The belief that organic farming cannot feed the world is a misconception. With proper design and soil management, organic systems can be highly productive and sustainable. What is “cut and come again” gardening? It’s a harvesting method where you remove outer leaves from plants like lettuce, kale, or chard, allowing them to regrow and produce continuously over months instead of a single harvest. How can families increase food resilience at home? By growing even a small portion of their food, storing shelf-stable items, and building relationships with neighbors or local growers, families can buffer against disruptions in the food system. Why is water management critical for resilient farming? Efficient irrigation—such as shorter, more frequent watering—prevents waste, improves plant health, and reduces stress on crops, especially in drought-prone regions. What role does mindset play in resilience? Mental preparedness is foundational. When individuals are prepared and confident, they respond to crises with clarity rather than panic, enabling better decision-making. Episode HighlightsResiliency is like a rubber band—stretch, recover, return to balanceFarms of the future rely on biodiversity and natural systemsOverwatering and poor design can silently destroy farm productivityCutting water use in half can actually improve plant healthOne ounce of wheat seed can yield a five-gallon bucket of grain“Cut and come again” gardening extends harvests for monthsFood is more valuable than gold in times of crisisPreparedness reduces stress and increases adaptability ResourcesUrban Farm Podcast - https://www.urbanfarm.org Edge of Urban Farm - http://edgeofurbanfarm.com John Jeavons Urban Farm Podcast Episodes https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/02/16/423-john-jeavons/ https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/02/19/424-john-jeavons/ Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/futurefarms for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more! *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

    43 min

  8. 20 MAR

    976: Table to Farm Climate Solutions, Say What?

    A new way of looking at climate solutions with Anthony MyintIn this Episode Anthony Myint shares his journey from pioneering pop-up restaurants to leading a climate-focused nonprofit transforming agriculture. He explains why consumer choice alone doesn’t change farming systems and introduces a new model: funding regenerative agriculture directly through small, scalable contributions. Through Zero Foodprint, businesses and individuals can help finance on-the-ground practices like compost application and cover cropping. The conversation reframes “farm-to-table” into “table-to-farm,” emphasizing collective action to restore soil and climate. Our Guest: Anthony Myint is the executive director of Zero FoodPrint, a nonprofit named one of the most innovative companies in the world by Fast Company. Zero FoodPrint leads, collaborations with state agencies, local governments, and hundreds of businesses to implement impactful and validated regenerative agriculture projects. The organization has awarded over $8 million to 600 plus farm projects Key Topics & EntitiesZero Foodprint nonprofit modelRegenerative agriculture practicesTable-to-farm vs. farm-to-tableRestaurant industry innovation (pop-ups, Mission Chinese Food)Climate-beneficial agricultureCompost application and soil carbon sequestrationCover crops and reduced soil disturbanceGrant funding for farmers (up to $25,000)Carbon measurement and cost-effectiveness modelingPublic-private partnerships (state, local, conservation groups)Consumer participation through 1% contributionsCollective regeneration conceptLimitations of organic market growth (1% of U.S. farmland)Economic barriers for farmers transitioning practices Key Questions AnsweredWhat is regenerative agriculture? A system focused on improving land management through practices like compost use, cover cropping, reduced tillage, and integrating livestock, working with nature to restore soil health and sequester carbon. Why don’t better consumer choices alone change farming? Because farmers operate within tight financial systems driven by loans and input costs. Paying slightly more for products doesn’t provide enough capital or reduce risk for farmers to transition practices. What is Zero Foodprint’s solution? A funding model where businesses and consumers contribute small amounts (often 1% of sales), which are pooled and distributed as grants to farmers implementing regenerative practices. How does the funding reach farmers? Farmers submit simple grant requests for specific practices. Funds are allocated based on cost-effectiveness (e.g., cost per ton of carbon sequestered) and verified by local experts. What does “table-to-farm” mean? Instead of just sourcing from good farms, it means sending money back to farms to actively support the transition to regenerative practices across the entire system. How can individuals participate? By dining at participating businesses, contributing monthly donations, or supporting campaigns that direct funds to regenerative agriculture projects. What impact has the model achieved so far? Over $8 million has been awarded to 600+ farm projects, funding real changes like compost application and cover cropping at scale. What is the biggest barrier to adoption? Even small contributions (like a penny or 1%) are still a new concept, and businesses and consumers are not yet accustomed to paying directly for climate solutions. Episode HighlightsAnthony’s early career helped pioneer the pop-up restaurant movement, leading to Mission Chinese Food.A turning point came after realizing organic farming still represents only ~1% of U.S. farmland after decades.The failure of “vote with your dollar” thinking led to a new model focused on direct funding.Zero Foodprint enables consumers to participate passively—just by eating at certain restaurants.One restaurant group generated $650,000 for farm projects through a 1% contribution model.A single music tour commitment created $300,000 for regenerative agriculture.Grants are simple and accessible, taking farmers just 15–20 minutes to apply.The long-term vision mirrors recycling and renewable energy programs—small fees funding systemic change. ResourcesResource — Zero Foodprint Website Donate — Support Regenerative Agriculture Apply (Farmers) — https://www.zerofoodprint.org/apply Visit www.urbanfarm.org/ZeroFoodPrint for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!  Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges.You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more!*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

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Welcome to The Urban Farm Podcast, your partner in the Grow Your Own Food revolution! This audio only podcast features special guests like Rosemary Morrow, Zach Loeks, and Andrew Millison as we discuss the art and value of growing food in urban areas. We'll explore topics such as gardening basics, urban beekeeping and chicken farming, permaculture, successful composting, monetizing your farm, and much more! Each episode will bring you tips and tricks on how to overcome common challenges, opportunities to learn from the experience of people just like you, and plenty of resources to ensure you're informed, equipped, and empowered to participate more mindfully in your local food system... and to have a great time doing it! Support our Podcast and listen Ad-Free! Visit www.urbanfarm.org/patron for more information and see what else we include.

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