NASHVILLE, Tenn. (June 5, 2024) — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), in collaboration with the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), has announced that Spring City, Tennessee will receive technical assistance through the Local Foods, Local Places program. This initiative aims to develop local food systems and further sustainability goals by engaging with community stakeholders.
“EPA is proud to partner with local communities to support local food initiatives that improve access to fresh foods, support and grow new business and protect the environment,” said Acting Region 4 Administrator Jeaneanne Gettle. “As a public health agency, EPA is committed to addressing the problem of food insecurity in the Southeast that can contribute to poor health in our communities.”
Spring City intends to combine efforts from various local groups to enhance fresh food availability through new community gardens and farmers market access. These initiatives aim to address health challenges such as obesity while contributing to downtown revitalization efforts by implementing green infrastructure to mitigate flooding risks and promote community gathering spaces.
“The Town of Spring City is proud to have been selected to be part of the Local Foods, Local Places program,” said City Manager Stephania Motes. “Our focus will be to create a farmers’ market and a community garden to help meet community needs as well as boost our downtown revitalization efforts and Agri-tourism in the area.”
This year, ARC and EPA will also work with the newly established U.S. Department of Agriculture Food Business Center for Appalachia. This center assists underserved farmers and food businesses in overcoming market access barriers within the local food supply chain.
Since its inception in 2014, the Local Foods, Local Places program has supported 137 communities nationwide. The program helps community groups, local governments, and tribal governments enhance their capacity to protect the environment and improve public health through better access to healthy foods and more active lifestyles. It emphasizes sustainable food systems and economic opportunities for local growers and value-added food processor entrepreneurs.
Learn more about the Local Foods, Local Places program.
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