Rochester’s community garden grows

Now in its second growing season, the Rochester Community Garden is growing strong.

The city of Rochester, City Beautiful Commission and Dinosaur Hill Nature Preserve teamed up two years ago to build a garden in the previously underutilized and little-known Scott Street Park. In its first year the garden had 42 plots; this year it’s increased to nearly 100 and is sold out. This year a Children’s Garden, sponsored by Home Depot and managed by Dinosaur Hill, was also added and serves as a separate area for educational programs that engage children in gardening activities.

The Community Garden provides a place for residents to grow food for themselves or for donation to a local food bank. Many gardeners also enjoy the social aspect of the communitygarden.

“Our gardeners are meeting new people, helping each other care for their plots, learning new things and enjoying the physical activity and healthier eating habits that accompany gardening activities,” said Sue Neal, Executive Director of Dinosaur Hill. “The added benefit of involving children in the garden care is a huge plus for families. You’d be amazed at how eager the kids are to help carry water, weed in the garden and even eat veggies they would normally refuse to consider.”

“The Scott Street Park location has been the perfect spot for the Community Garden,” said Bill Bohlen, the city’s Director of Parks and Public Works.  “For most gardeners, this is the first time they even knew this park existed. The garden won a Keep Michigan Beautiful Award last year and is yet another thing that makes Rochester such a great town to live in.”

For more information about the garden, including volunteer opportunities, children’s programs and how to obtain a plot next year, visit the Rochester Community Garden Facebook page or contact Dinosaur Hill at (248) 656-0999 or garden@dinosaurhill.org.

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