Farm lands for all; accessible farming

 

Been simply walking around, taking pictures and pondering over farm writing prompts. One less cautious day means another allergy stricken week ahead. So been having thoughts on how environment/farm blog, newsletter writing and farm related businesses work for chronically ill and people living with disabilities. 

How does someone like me with post illness lung issues and allergies navigate a farm without throwing me out there to the potential risks. Are there landscaping resources particularly studied for all bodies and circumstances and if there are, are they affordable, approachable and accessible? 

Are farms wheelchair friendly?, mine is possibly not, how to assess the access? If there are government schemes that can make understand the way to go in this, maybe it should have reached me by now. Since attending training sessions and visiting the local administration agri related offices I know for a fact that the system overlooks farmer groups for whom farm labour is simply made not possible. Navigation is the first step, I should be able to take my crutch to my farm land and I do not mean toiling the land to make it walkable for me. I mean a landscape , if people-made to simply follow the science of accessible architecture . For instance , my farm land got an already existing ramp and to not destroy that would be the first step. And another crucial step tools and resources. And maybe still my lungs can't handle the ramp slant to which I should now look for ways to be consistent in learning to drive, for that we need a tailored patient programme that can understand me, right? Here is again the systemic inefficiency loop that keeps be up at night! 

I see reels and content online where farmers use tools that makes work easier, but on enquiring in the local market they are not even available in markets near me. This is closely related to the accessible designs in architecture , not just the farm land modifications for the chronically ill, like adaptive farm vehicles equipped with wheelchair lifts or ramps that can facilitate access to different areas of the farm without causing damage to the land. These vehicles should be designed to navigate rough terrain while ensuring safety. And another would be Incorporating raised garden beds or container gardening systems at accessible heights allows individuals with disabilities to participate in farming activities without the need to bend or kneel. 

For the mostly allergic like me,  additional considerations are needed to ensure accessibility and safety on the farm. Here are some more suggestions :

Agri and medical help in opting for low-allergen plants and landscaping materials to minimize allergic reactions. Choosing native plants that are less likely to allergies and avoiding high-pollen plants like ragweed or certain grasses.

 Creating shaded rest areas equipped with seating and shelter to provide refuge from the sun and potential allergens. These areas can offer a comfortable retreat for individuals experiencing fatigue or allergic reactions while working on the farm.

Personal protective equipment, such as hypoallergenic gloves, masks, and protective clothing, to minimize exposure to allergens and irritants during farm activities.

Resources and government help in collaborating medical community and farm development can help alot! In detail - an allergy management plan in collaboration with healthcare professionals to identify triggers, symptoms, and appropriate interventions for allergic reactions. Explaining the science to farm workers and visitors on allergy awareness and emergency procedures.

wide doorways to accommodate wheelchairs, walkers, and mobility aids.

Allowing for breaks and rest periods to manage symptoms effectively.

There needs to be resources on farm safety, allergy management, and accessible farming practices for all farm workers. Fostering a supportive and inclusive environment that values the well-being of individuals with chronic illnesses and allergies.

And yes, more Boots, gloves, hats, veil, masks!!!

*Newsletter content* to be continued under the Newsletter label