The city has disclosed plans to partner with the Board of Aldermen, city staff, and local groups to promote urban agriculture in New England’s most densely populated city. Mayor Joseph A. Curtatone’s office said it plans to help introduce an ordinance to help clear the way toward community gardening and farming within city limits. To kick off the initiative, three events are scheduled Saturday, including an effort by Groundwork Somerville to plant the city’s first farm, set for 10 a.m. at 111 South St. Other workshops that day will cover small-scale food growing and a pot-luck meal at the library’s central branch. “We’re not just talking about community gardens here, but other food production options that lend themselves to the urban environment,’’ said Curtatone in a statement. “Support for urban agriculture helps our residents obtain fresher, healthier food as well as helping them control where their food comes from and how it is produced.’’ Ward 6 Alderwoman Rebekah Gewirtz, chairwoman of the board’s Environment and Energy Committee, said the ordinance would tweak rules and policies to spur growing. “My constituents are enthusiastic about the potential for urban agriculture to enhance their health and the quality of their lives,’’ Gewirtz said. “This ordinance will empower our residents to explore urban agriculture as a means to improve their lives and their environment.’’ - Matt Byrne
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