302. Anna Withers and Kevin Prather on Cultivating Community Gardens

The Thriving Farmer Podcast

How can urban farming not only feed a community but also foster connection and education?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Anna Withers and Kevin Prather from Springfield Community Gardens. Together, they dive into the organization’s mission to promote healthy local food access and support aspiring farmers. Learn how Springfield Community Gardens has grown to manage 16 gardens across the city, offering educational programs and farmer incubator opportunities, all while practicing regenerative agriculture and fostering community involvement.

Tune in to discover how urban farming initiatives like Springfield Community Gardens are shaping the future of local food systems and inspiring others to connect with the land!

Episode Highlights:

• Beginnings: Anna and Kevin’s journey into farming [1:03]
• Mission: What Springfield Community Gardens is all about [4:36]
• Education: Focus of their farmer incubator program [13:18]
• Season Extension: Tunnels and hoop houses on the farm [18:04]
• Land Access: Leasing agreement for state hospital land [20:44]
• Soil Health: Fertility programs and resolving lead issues [25:55]
• Support: Where SCG’s funding and support come from [30:46]
• Youth Program: How SCG engages the next generation [33:51]

About the Guest:

Anna Withers is the Farmer and Resource Development Manager for Springfield Community Gardens. She uses her business degree with a concentration in Nonprofit Management to help farmers grow and expand their businesses, while also teaching youth about their roles in the food system. Anna is a proud consumer of local food and aims to make it easier for everyday people to access farm fresh goods.

After starting as an apprentice at a small farm in Springfield, MO, Kevin Prather has spent the last decade immersed in regenerative ag at multiple farms, teaching what he's learned along the way. He's the founding farmer of Amanda Belle's Hospital Farm, which partners with our city's largest hospital system. Now SCG's farmer educator, he runs the on-site internship program with funding from the EPA environmental justice grant.

Connect with Springfield Community Gardens:

• Website: Springfield Community Gardens
• Facebook: Like on Facebook
• Instagram: Follow on Instagram
• YouTube: Subscribe on YouTube

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