Submitted by Brandy E. Brabham
Extension Agent - Roane-Calhoun Counties
The West Virginia University Extension Service in Calhoun County is working closely with Knotts Memorial United Methodist Church and the Family Resource Network to develop a community garden for use by residents of Grantsville and the surrounding area who need a place to plant a garden.
In light of these tough economic times, we view this as an opportunity for families and single unit households to reduce some of the burden of food expenses on their budgets.
If a community garden is a new concept to you, please understand that this is a place where plots are divided and assigned based on an application process. Plots are divided into approximately 12' x 12' sections, with larger plots available depending on demand.
Plots are leased/awarded to those who agree to abide by the guidelines established by the community garden planning committee. Each lessee or plot owner is responsible for caring for their own plot. Community needs such as weed eating around the perimeter of the fence and pathways is handled on a volunteer basis.
Acting as the facilitation agency, West Virginia University Extension Service will provide support through education, scheduled group work days, organizing efforts, and gathering resources. To meet our need for resources, we are reaching out to the local community members and businesses to request in-kind support and/or donations.
Below is a list of some of the must-have materials along with wish-list materials.
Fencing Materials:
½ mile of 40 gauge electric fence wire
60 each 6' steel "T" posts
8 bags of plastic electric fence insulators
3 rubber handles for electric fence entry
1- 6 volt battery operated electric fence charger
1-6 volt battery
Scrap wood to build box for fence charger
Treated Lumber for signage; Water Tank; Baling twine; Fencing flags; Weed eater; Hoes; Rakes; Tomato Stakes; Bean poles; Mulch;
Compost Bin; Picnic Table.
If you, your employees, or business as a whole, can help us acquire these items, please contact us as soon as possible. We would also accept any financial contributions you have available as well. The purchase price of the fencing materials are just over $600 alone.
Contributions, individual, or company, are need as soon as possible, at least by May 15.
Donations can be made payable to Grantsville Community Garden at the following address: Calhoun County Family Resource Network, Grantsville Community Garden, PO Box 620, Grantsville, WV 26147.
Thank you for your consideration! For more information, please call 304-354-6332.
Applications and guidelines are available at WVU-Calhoun County Extension Office located in the basement of the Calhoun County Courthouse.
See GARDENING MADE EASY - Grantsville's Community Garden
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