The Trump Administration has announced that Fort Pierce, Fla. is one of 15 communities selected to participate in Local Foods, Local Places (LFLP), a federal initiative that helps communities reinvest in existing neighborhoods and improve quality of life as they develop the local food economy. Through LFLP, a team of agricultural, environmental, public health and regional economic development experts will work directly with the City of Fort Pierce and other community leaders to educate and promote to residents the benefits of growing, selling and consuming local, healthy food, participating in physical activities and the importance of protecting the environment and water quality.
“The City of Fort Pierce is immensely proud to have been chosen to participate in this collaborative national initiative,” said City Manager Nicholas Mimms. “Our partnership with 'Local Foods, Local Places,' the United States Environmental Protection Agency, the United States Department of Agriculture, and the Northern Border Regional Commission will undoubtedly complement community efforts to preserve open spaces, protect environmental quality, and enhance the wellness of our children and families. The Fort Pierce community is strong, resilient, and this united effort will definitely propel our sustainability.”
This year, LFLP is supported by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. Department of Agriculture Agricultural Marketing Service, and the Northern Border Regional Commission. The 2019 Local Foods, Local Places communities were chosen from more than 70 applicants. Since its launch in 2014, LFLP has helped 93 communities across the country develop local food enterprises, such as farmers markets, community gardens and cooperative grocery stores, that improve environmental, economic, and health outcomes.
“EPA is pleased to help the Fort Pierce community with their plans to support revitalization while also improving health and protecting the environment,” said EPA Acting Region 4 Administrator Mary S. Walker.
The City of Fort Pierce plans to establish two new community gardens, a permanent farmers' market, a fitness court and a walking trail in the historic Lincoln Park neighborhood. Additionally, the city plans to create educational materials for local schools, area agencies and organizations on the importance of protecting the water quality of Moore’s Creek, which runs through the heart of Lincoln Park into the Indian River Lagoon.
For more information about Local Foods, Local Places (LFLP): https://www.epa.gov/smartgrowth/local-foods-local-places
For more information about Local Foods, Local Places (LFLP) communities selected in 2019: https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2019-04/documents/lflp5_summary_report.pdf