THE PARTNERSHIP GARDEN
at the School of Environmental Studies, Apple Valley, MN
The Partnership Garden is a new organic community garden growing from an intergenerational partnership between community members and students attending the School of Environmental Studies. I am part of this initiative and currently serving as a grant and public relations writer and researcher, among other adventures.
Growing a Community Garden in Partnership with Nature, The Edge, April 2011
Partnership Garden Receives Minnesota SHIP Grant Spring 2011
WHAT IS OUR VISION?
To build a diverse collaborative community committed to growing a sustainable organic garden at the School of Environmental Studies while learning, sharing, and teaching each other about gardening in partnership with nature. Our flourishing garden was first planted in spring 2011.
We will create and provide a welcoming space for new and seasoned gardeners to learn and share while growing cross-cultural intergenerational relationships and healthy food.
Through active cross-cultural outreach, we will provide some free and reduced-fee garden plots and donate at least 20% percent of our fresh garden produce to low-income community families.
We will inspire and engage non-gardeners and our community in shared experiences, classes, and meals focused on healthy gardening and enjoying healthy foods.
We will model self-sufficiency and shared responsibility for improving and sustaining our food sources, valued community resources, and a healthy local environment.
WHAT DO WE NEED TO REALIZE OUR VISION?
We are interested in used, new, or the expertise to build…ask for details:
•Arbor for entrance, pergola for shelter & shade
•Cash donations
•Gardeners and volunteers (beginners and seasoned welcome)
•Person with truck to pick up and deliver bulk materials
•Picnic tables and garden benches
•Plant materials (seeds & seedlings, bushes, hedges, trees)
•Website design (expertise to create and/or maintain)
•Wheel barrow or garden wagon
•Wood (assorted) for building trellis, stand for water tanks, etc.
Cleaning the Garden Site, September 12, 2010
COMMUNITY PARTNERS
Growing Community is an intergenerational group of community members who are initiating and supporting organic community gardens in the Apple Valley area. We are always welcoming new participants, volunteers, and beginning and seasoned gardeners of all ages and abilities. No website yet!
The School of Environmental Studies (SES), 12155 Johnny Cake Road, Apple Valley, Minnesota, is an optional ISD 196 high school for juniors and seniors adjacent to the Minnesota Zoo. Supporting about 400 students, the mission of SES is to be a community of leaders learning to enhance the relationship between humans and their environment. To learn more: www.district196.org/ses/.
For meeting dates/times, donations, further information and questions, contact Roxanne Beseman at 952.431.2553.
