MIDVALE, Utah — Rising food costs are bringing some Utah residents back to the garden, and their community. 

Midvale resident Spencer Mears wants easy access to community gardens in Utah.

For Mears, self-sufficiency in his community is the goal.

Mears successfully launched one garden last year with space donated by the Unified Police Department.

“I see people around me who are struggling and could really use the opportunity to learn how to better help themselves.”

This year, Mears wants to expand the gardens to more populated areas, like apartments.

Right now, he’s working with local businesses to find permanent homes for the gardens.

And while many residents are on board with the idea, Mears said gaining momentum isn’t easy.

“We get a lot of responses of people liking the idea, thinking it’s a great thing to do, but then actually getting people to step up to help out has been the real challenge.”

Related: 

• The beauty (and solitude) of Bryce Canyon National Park in the winter

• Preparing garden beds for early planting

• Be aware of winter wildlife while recreating outside