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The Rise Of Urban Agriculture: A Cautionary Tale – No Rules, Big Problems, Matthew V. Bradshaw

William & Mary Business Law Review

This Note identifies the underlying cause of the collapse of the family farm, namely the failed effort of the U.S. Government to save it through the institution and ongoing promulgation of the Farm Bill. Through subsidy and direct payment regimes, federal legislation has enabled large commodity producers to enjoy protection from market risk while squeezing out smaller growers. Because of growing consumer distrust in large-scale agricultural production, the urban agriculture movement and nontraditional market systems continue to grow in popularity and footprint across the United States. Many municipalities have already recognized the vast benefits that an urban agriculture regime can …