Exploration of the Primary Motivations, Perceived Benefits, and Challenges of Two Rural Community Gardens

• In Event: 282 - Student Forum Refereed Roundtable Session
  In Refereed Roundtable 100min: Table 05. Community Organizing and Organizations

Abstract

Objectives. We examined the primary motivations, perceived benefits, and overall gardener experience associated with participation in the Lewisburg Community Garden and East Snyder Garden in Union County, Pennsylvania. While many studies highlight the implementation of gardens in urban communities and how they address local food security issues, this paper is unique as it examines the role of community gardens in rural central Pennsylvania.
Methods. We conducted semi-structured interviews representing 33 plot renters in Union County, Pennsylvania, during July through October 2014. Questions were intended to reveal reasons why individuals had joined the garden and their overall satisfaction with the community garden experience, as well as specific benefits they received from the garden. Basic content analysis was used to identify emergent themes in the responses.
Results. Reported benefits of participating in the community garden were grouped into five identified themes: (1) access to quality land and resources; (2) setting for social interaction and learning; (3) community development and connectedness; (4) improved quality of food intake; and (5) self-achievement and relaxation.
Conclusions. We find that although some of the motivations may be different for why rural residents participate in community gardens compared to urban, the benefits remain comparable. Community gardens present a promising approach to improving rural community health and promoting a sustainable local food system.

Authors

• Taylor Marie McCready, Bucknell University

• T. Elizabeth Durden, Bucknell University