GLOBE-Net (April 05, 2009) - Over the past 50 years it is estimated Detroit has lost almost half of its population. Long known for its many vacant lots resulting from this depopulation - estimated at 40 square miles - the possible collapse of the domestic auto industry could add to that stock of non-productive real estate.

Enter Detroit Businessman John Hantz with plans for Hantz Farms - a concept that would convert hundreds, even thousands, of vacant parcels in the city into urban agriculture. Detroit 'could become a destination for fresh, local and natural foods and become a major part of the green movement,' says Hantz.