The Extension Milwaukee County (Extension) has long remained a core source for education, land access, and technical resources pertaining to urban agriculture. The first Extension community garden dates back to 1972 at the historic “Milwaukee County Grounds”, just northeast of the zoo interchange.

Today Extension provides community gardens throughout the County, serving over 500 families on 75 acres of land.  Embracing the vast diversity and culture shared amongst gardeners, we commit to building sustainable centers for urban agriculture throughout Milwaukee County. 

Program Areas 

Rent a Garden

Extension has rented gardens in Milwaukee County since 1972. For urban residents who do not have a place to garden, the garden plot rental program provides an opportunity to grow nutritious food, save grocery money, enjoy some exercise and share family traditions. To learn more about renting a garden, visit the Garden Rental webpage or contact the garden rental assistant at 414-615-0538 or milwaukee.garden.rentals@extension.wisc.edu

Certified Beekeeping & the Urban Apiculture Institute

Extension Milwaukee County & the Urban Apiculture Institute have started Wisconsin’s first Certified Beekeeper program. In 2008, we secured a permit for an apiary at the community gardens in Wauwatosa and conducted our first beekeeping class. To learn more, contact Jan Alba, 414-615-0533, or visit the Urban Apiculture Institute webpage.

Accessible Gardening

Since 1995, Extension Urban Agriculture staff have been teaching gardeners with physical and developmental limitations the joy and techniques of gardening. We train clients and caregivers at our innovative accessible demonstration garden and adjacent greenhouse. For more information about accessible gardening or to arrange a tour, contact Martin Ventura at mkventura@wisc.edu or 414-488-7720.