Interviewing an U Farmer, GEP-4 EXP4

1. When starting an interview with an urban farmer, a good opening might be:

• 1. a) "So, how long have you been doing this?" (Informal)
     

• 1. b) "Thank you for taking the time to speak with me today." (Warm introduction)

1. A question about the farm's history could be:

• 1. a) "What made you try urban farming?" (Generic)

• 1. b) "What initially sparked your interest in urban farming?" (Focuses on origin story)

1. To learn about the farming process, you could ask:

• 1. a) "What kind of plants do you grow?" (Focuses on product)

• 1. b) "Can you walk me through your typical growing process here?" (Explores methods)

A question about the challenges of urban farming might be:

• a) "Is urban farming hard?" (Leading question)

• b) "What are some of the unique challenges you face with urban farming?" (Open-ended)

1. To learn about the products and clientele, you could ask:

• 1. a) "Do you like being an urban farmer?" (Focuses on feelings)

• 1. b) "Who are your primary customers for the produce you grow?" (Focuses on market)

1. A question about the future of the farm could be:

• 1. a) "Will you keep doing this forever?" (Personal)
     

• 1. b) "What are your hopes and aspirations for your urban farm in the coming years?" (Focuses on plans)

1. When closing the interview, it's best to say:

• 1. a) "That's all I have, thanks." (Curt)

• 1. b) "Thank you again for sharing your insights about urban farming. It's been a pleasure learning from you." (Expresses appreciation)

A good way to maintain a curious and engaged tone is to:

• a) Ask only the questions you prepared beforehand.
  

• b) Ask follow-up questions to delve deeper into interesting topics.

1. It's important to be respectful of the farmer's time by:

• 1. a) Talking about your own experiences with gardening.

• 1. b) Keeping the interview focused and avoiding going over time.

1. Highlighting the value of urban farming might involve saying:

• 1. a) "This seems like a lot of work." (Discouraging)

• 1. b) "Thank you for your work. Urban farming is an important contribution to a more sustainable food system." (Expresses appreciation)