Reflecting on En-Gage Riverside's 2024 Inaugural Community Meeting: A Step Forward Together

This event, held at Greenbelt Growers Nursery, marked a significant milestone for our En-Gage Riverside community. As we gathered for our inaugural meeting, the air was filled with anticipation, purpose, and a shared vision for the future of agriculture in Riverside. Despite the meeting's intimate size, the engagement and enthusiasm of approximately 30 attendees, including representatives from key agricultural departments and organizations, set a solid foundation for impactful collaboration and growth.

A Gathering of Minds and Missions

The presence of representatives from the Agricultural Commissioner's office, two from the USDA, and one from the CDFA was particularly noteworthy. Their participation not only lent credibility to our efforts but also provided invaluable insights into the regulatory landscape affecting homeowners and farmers alike. The discussions painted a stark yet clear picture of the challenges ahead, emphasizing the need for our community's proactive engagement in shaping our agricultural future.

Community Action and Engagement

One of the meeting's highlights was the introduction of a petition concerning the Oriental Fruit Fly Quarantine, a topic that resonates deeply within our community. The petition was met with enthusiasm, garnering signatures from attendees committed to advocating for sensible and sustainable agricultural practices.

In addition, we were encouraged to see a significant portion of attendees, about a third, identify as shareholders, underscoring the growing interest and involvement of local stakeholders in our mission. This interest further manifested in the lively discussion around water rights and shares, revealing a community eager to reclaim and exercise their rights for the betterment of Riverside's greenbelt.

Capturing Moments, Shaping Narratives

Thanks to Steve and Jennifer, the meeting was filmed, capturing the essence and energy of our gathering. We're currently working on the best way to share this footage with our community, potentially offering those who couldn't attend a glimpse into the discussions and the spirit of collective ambition that characterized the evening.

What's Next for En-Gage Riverside?

Inspired by the feedback and suggestions from the meeting, we're planning to enrich our content strategy with topics close to our heart and mission. Upcoming posts will delve into how to check your shares, exercise your water rights, and possibly reclaim them from the city, addressing the keen interest shown by our members in these areas.

The meeting also saw new sign-ups to our mailing list, a testament to the growing reach and appeal of En-Gage Riverside's mission. For those wondering about incorporating more members into our communication fold, rest assured, we're exploring efficient ways to integrate all interested parties seamlessly including a new En-Gage Riverside Forum ensuring no one misses out on our updates and initiatives. Here you can collaborate as a community- sharing, learning and finding ways to strengthen our roots together.

A Collective Thank You

As we adjourned, the room buzzed not just with informal conversations but with a sense of purpose and a shared commitment to the land that sustains us. This meeting was just the beginning. Together, we're poised to navigate the challenges, embrace the opportunities, and cultivate a sustainable, vibrant agricultural community in Riverside.

Stay Engaged

We encourage every member of our community to stay engaged, spread the word, and contribute their voice and efforts to our collective mission. Whether through volunteering, participating in our campaigns, or simply sharing your ideas, every action moves us closer to our shared goals. Thank you to all who attended, and to those supporting us in spirit. The journey ahead is promising, and together, we will make a difference!