Viljelyyhteisö

A viljelyyhteisö, often translated as a "cultivation community" or "growing collective," is a form of community-based agriculture. These communities are established by groups of individuals who come together to cultivate land collectively. The primary goals of a viljelyyhteisö can vary, but often include shared access to land for food production, promoting sustainable farming practices, and fostering social connections among members.

Members of a viljelyyhteisö typically contribute labor, resources, or both to the cultivation efforts. The produce harvested is then shared among the members according to pre-determined agreements. These agreements might be based on the amount of labor contributed, the size of the plot allocated, or simply an equal distribution. Ownership of the land itself can vary; sometimes the land is collectively owned by the community, while in other cases, members might lease or use land owned by an individual or an organization.

Viljelyyhteisöt can take many forms, from small, informal groups of neighbors sharing a garden to larger, more formally organized agricultural cooperatives. They often emphasize ecological sustainability, using methods such as organic farming, permaculture, or other environmentally friendly approaches. Beyond food production, these communities can also serve as educational spaces, fostering knowledge sharing about gardening, farming, and food systems. The social aspect is also significant, providing opportunities for community building and shared activity.