Columbia's Agriculture Park

Columbia's Agriculture Park, situated within Clary-Shy Community Park in Columbia, Missouri, is a 10-acre public space that merges agriculture, education, recreation, and community engagement. Created through a public-private partnership involving Columbia Center for Urban Agriculture (CCUA), Columbia Farmers Market, Sustainable Farms & Communities, and Columbia Parks and Recreation, the park exemplifies innovation in urban planning. Opened in 2019, the park is designed to address food insecurity, promote healthy living, support local agriculture, and provide educational opportunities.

At the heart of the park is the Columbia Farmers Market, housed in a covered pavilion that accommodates up to 98 vendors year-round. Surrounding this hub are demonstration gardens, urban farming plots, a food forest, and a native habitat area showcasing sustainable food production techniques. These areas not only supply fresh produce for the local food pantry but also serve as educational spaces where visitors can learn about growing and preparing healthy foods. The urban farm alone is expected to produce an estimated 50,000 pounds of food annually.

The park is also a vibrant community space that facilitates recreational activities and learning. Features like an interactive nature trail, an outdoor playground, a greenhouse, and an outdoor classroom make it accessible for all ages. Planned additions include a 10,000-square-foot event center and a community kitchen for nutrition education and cooking demonstrations. The project is built on the historic site of the Boone County Fairgrounds and reflects Columbia's commitment to sustainability, health, and community collaboration.