YEONGJONGDO, INCHEON, SOUTH KOREA – The Unbuk Operations Center of the Incheon Environment Corporation (IECO) has recently inaugurated a new weekend farm dedicated to the residents of Yeongjongdo, garnering significant interest and highlighting the community's enthusiasm for green initiatives. The newly established farm, covering an area of 322 pyeong (approximately 1064 square meters or 0.26 acres), has allocated plots to 50 local households and 5 community organizations.

The overwhelming popularity of the project was evident in the exceptionally high application rate. This year's call for participants attracted a remarkable 546 applicants, resulting in a highly competitive ratio of 10 applications for every available plot. This intense demand underscores the strong desire among Yeongjongdo residents to engage in urban agriculture and connect with nature.

Responding directly to the needs and preferences of the local community, IECO incorporated smaller-sized garden plots into the farm's design. The weekend farm now features a variety of plot sizes to accommodate different needs: large plots (20 square meters), small plots (10 square meters), and larger group plots (33 square meters) for organizations. Participants will have the opportunity to cultivate various vegetables, including popular choices like lettuce and young radish, while learning and practicing environmentally friendly farming techniques. This hands-on experience promotes sustainable living and fosters a greater appreciation for ecological practices.

The opening ceremony of the weekend farm was met with palpable excitement from the participating residents. One fortunate resident, who secured a coveted plot, expressed their delight, stating, "Being selected for this weekend farm feels like winning a lottery! My family and I are thrilled and look forward to nurturing our own garden."

Kim Seong-hoon, Chairman of the Incheon Environment Corporation, emphasized the dual benefits of the initiative. "It is truly meaningful to repurpose the underutilized land within our environmental infrastructure facilities for the benefit and enjoyment of the local community," he remarked. "This project exemplifies our commitment to being a public corporation that actively communicates and engages with the residents we serve. We are dedicated to fostering a stronger connection between our operations and the well-being of the community."

The Unbuk Operations Center plays a crucial role in managing the environmental needs of Yeongjongdo, processing approximately 23,000 tons of sewage generated on the island daily. Beyond its primary function, the center has proactively transformed surplus land into valuable community amenities, including the popular weekend farm, as well as tennis and jokgu courts. These resident-friendly facilities have been met with enthusiastic appreciation from the local populace, demonstrating IECO's commitment to enhancing the quality of life in Yeongjongdo. This initiative serves as a model for how environmental infrastructure can coexist and positively interact with the surrounding community.

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