Self-reliance and sustainability require the cycling of resources and an increase in natural capital. Developing skills within individuals is an unlimited resource for the application of sustainable practices. Developing the infrastructure which allows the education of those individuals and the development of ecological resources necessary, ensures the continued practice and expansion of resources for others. This project uses minimal purchased hardware and a majority of natural resources which already exist. While the purchase resource will last for many years to come, the natural resources, natural capital, and ecological services will be enhanced and increased.

A one-time application of ecologically sustainable principles and practices will build a culturally supported agricultural resource for the community. Demonstrating season and harvest extension to the local community, while modeling better agricultural practices to retain soil fertility, moisture, and increased organic material, results in a nutritious harvest which motivates best practices. Participants increase their self-sufficiency by producing their own food while reducing their dependence on purchased goods, and in the end, desire healthier meal choices.

How will the project sustain itself and what benefit will the low income community have?

The basic elements of this project: soil, water, seed, and gardening tools are for the most part plentiful and available. Developing the garden community where participants share in the experience and the harvest reinvigorates hope and builds an expanded support system. Low income communities will find wholesome foods are more filling, better tasting, and nutritious. They will find this food available in its many seasonal forms in abundance and develop the skills to store the food for later times. Over a very few growing seasons, community gardeners will learn what to grow, when to grow it, and what to do with it. They will find their favorites or their most prolific harvests and be encouraged to share and trade with others growing different crops. This creates a community of empowered individuals which can excel in a diverse and growing field of opportunities marketing their crops, learning new skills, supporting their families, and  reducing economic stress.