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Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about Grassroots Gardens WNY?
Find answers about our mission, our network, starting a community garden, and more below!
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What does it mean that Grassroots Gardens is an accredited land trust?
Accreditation is a national mark of distinction in land conservation. It shows that Grassroots Gardens meets the highest standards for ethical practices, fiscal accountability, and long-term stewardship of the community gardens we conserve.
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Why did Grassroots Gardens decide to become a land trust?
Buffalo-Niagara is experiencing redevelopment, and we want to ensure that this growth does not come at the cost of losing green space. By owning land directly, rather than just leasing it, we can protect community gardens permanently on behalf of neighborhoods that need them most.
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When did Grassroots Gardens start owning gardens instead of leasing them?
In 2017, we purchased our first two properties: the Cottage District Garden on York Street and the Tyler Street Community Garden. This marked our transition from leasing to owning land for long-term protection.
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What is the Land Trust Alliance and why is its accreditation important?
The Land Trust Alliance is a national organization that sets rigorous standards for land conservation. Accredited land trusts, like Grassroots Gardens, typically have stronger financial resources, more staff and volunteers, and greater capacity to protect and steward land than non-accredited trusts.
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How does Grassroots Gardens decide which gardens to protect?
Our Land Stewardship Committee evaluates which gardens are most at risk of development, which have the deepest community investment, and which provide essential green space in neighborhoods with the greatest need.
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When did Grassroots Gardens achieve accreditation?
After a year-long organizational audit, we received official accreditation in August 2021.
