Societal & Health Benefits from the Implementation of Urban Agriculture & Examining the Feasibility of Micro Urban Agriculture in Two Tucson, AZ Census Tracts

Abstract

The thesis focuses on the effects urban agriculture could have on a community and the nation. By examining current states of mental health, physical health, and societal health through the lenses of current obesity rates, driving, being outdoors, and the current agricultural system, a conclusion was formed that urban agriculture would promote overall health. Two Census tracts within Tucson, AZ, 37.01, and 21, were closely examined on the feasibility of implementing urban agriculture within their communities. The thesis resulted with the conclusion that further health studies in the tracts were necessary, but that areas with access to reclaimed water could begin implementing micro urban agriculture.