Urban Tilth

Urban Tilth is a nonprofit community agriculture organization based in Richmond, California, dedicated to cultivating sustainable food systems in the West Contra Costa County region. Founded in 2007, Urban Tilth develops and manages a network of urban farms, gardens, and agricultural programs designed to improve food security, promote ecological health, and build community resilience in areas affected by poverty and environmental injustice. The organization manages approximately 6.5 acres of urban farmland distributed across multiple sites, producing fresh organic vegetables for local residents and community members. Urban Tilth runs youth agriculture programs that connect young people with food growing and ecological stewardship, providing workforce development, environmental education, and leadership opportunities. Its farm sites serve as demonstration spaces for sustainable urban agriculture practices including composting, water conservation, soil building, and integrated pest management. Urban Tilth distributes produce through a community-supported agriculture program, farmers markets, and partnerships with local food assistance programs, ensuring that fresh, sustainably grown food reaches residents who may lack access to healthy food. The organization also engages in community organizing and advocacy around food justice, urban greening, and environmental equity. Urban Tilth’s work demonstrates the vital role that community-based urban agriculture can play in building food sovereignty, ecological literacy, and social cohesion in urban communities.