This thesis is comprised of research into successful urban agricultural practices in U.S. and six case studies of projects, three on community gardening and three on rooftop gardening/ greening. Through the use of a literature review to investigate relevant urban agricultural issues, it was established that community based urban agriculture is a large complex topic that can be analyzed through four general characteristics to determine its manifestation in the urban landscape. These four characteristics — physical, economic, social and ecological —illustrate the far-reaching implications of the practice of urban agriculture of urban agriculture and its relevance to the creation of sustainable cities.
The case study cites were selected based on the similar climatic and topographical conditions to City of Cincinnati, so that it would be easy to provide a sets of recommendation to City of Cincinnati to implement community and rooftop greening. The urban agriculture in U.S. and Canada is practiced, primarily for social and environmental rather than economic reasons. The social characteristics of the agriculture — particularly outreach, education and community pride-fueled much of the activity. There was direct economic benefits due to employment generation, sales of produce and reducing of environmental costs in terms of energy conservation in all six case study cities. There was evidence of a green philosophy demonstrated by all six of case studies with pesticide-free practices, storm water management, reduce heat island effect and organic waste management.
Although this research is relevant to community organizations, government and professionals, it indicated that if the profession of urban planner in particular viewed the incorporation of urban agricultural issues as an important design tool, urban planners could provide a deep and meaningful way to create sustainable cities that employ and feed people, promote neighborhood pride and conserve natural resources.