The City of Dayton’s (Ohio) Urban Agriculture Grant Program, launched in 2012, is an innovative initiative that merges stormwater management with community empowerment. Coordinated by the Water Department and the Community Engagement umbrella of the City’s Planning, Neighborhoods, and Development Department, the program provides urban growers with the opportunity to use finished Dayton Water and collected rainwater to support gardens that deliver environmental and community benefits. These efforts help restore biodiversity, increase green space, and address food insecurity across the city.

By offering up to $2,500 for infrastructure and $500 for water use, the program helps remove some of the financial barriers associated with converting vacant lots into productive gardens. These green spaces contribute to runoff reduction, improved soil health, and climate impact mitigation. To be considered for funding, applicants must incorporate Best Management Practices (BMPs) to ensure erosion control and water quality improvements for Dayton’s rivers and streams.

Dayton’s population reflects a rich tapestry of racial and ethnic diversity. As of 2025, approximately 38% of residents identify as Black or African American, 6.8% as multiracial, 2.3% as other races, and 1.2% as Asian, with 51% identifying as White. This diversity is also reflected in the city’s immigrant communities, which are supported through initiatives such as Welcome Dayton, a city-led program that promotes integration by expanding access to education, health services, and economic opportunities. Immigrant-owned businesses and cultural events have become vital to Dayton’s economy and social fabric, while organizations such as El Puente and Cross Over Community Development provide mentorship and resources to refugee and immigrant families.

Food insecurity remains a pressing issue in Dayton, particularly in historically marginalized neighborhoods. In 2022, 14% of households in Montgomery County and one in four children in Dayton were food insecure. West Dayton, a predominantly Black community, has been disproportionately affected by food deserts due to historic redlining and disinvestment. The closure of grocery stores in these neighborhoods has further limited residents’ access to fresh, nutritious food.

The Urban Agriculture Grant Program directly addresses these challenges by supporting gardens in underserved and immigrant-rich areas. These gardens not only provide culturally relevant produce but also serve as hubs for education, mentorship, and community connection. Participants often donate excess harvests to local food banks, reinforcing the program’s role in combating hunger.

To date, Dayton’s Urban Gardens have grown to 41 locations, serving communities throughout the city. The program continues to expand, helping support neighborhoods where access to fresh food and green space is most needed.

The City of Dayton’s Urban Agriculture Grant Program demonstrates how a practical, community-focused initiative can address stormwater management, food insecurity, and equity at the same time. By supporting urban gardens with water access and infrastructure funding, the program helps reduce runoff, improve water quality, and expand green space in underserved neighborhoods. It also engages a diverse population—including immigrant communities and residents in food deserts—by enabling them to grow culturally relevant produce and contribute to local food banks.

By removing financial barriers, strengthening community ties, and promoting environmental stewardship, the program supports food security and sustainable practices through ongoing education. Its measurable impact on water quality, public health, and neighborhood resilience demonstrates how clean water programs can be leveraged to support inclusive, sustainable urban development.

NACWA awarded the City of Dayton Department of Water a 2026 National Environmental Achievement Award in the Community Leadership category for its impactful program. Congratulations to everyone involved!