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LEBANON — Several organizations within the city are coming together to create a community garden inside Lebanon.
The city of Lebanon, the Shade Tree Commission, and 1Eighty Ministries are working together to create a community garden in the city.
“A lot of people have lost the art of growing,” said Mickie Marquis, a member of the Shade Tree Commission, and a life-long gardener. “It’s a relaxing and fun process. There’s such a thrill when something you plant grows.”
Jamie Brandenburg, the executive director of 1Eighty Ministries, looks at the garden in more practical terms.
“A lot of people are still struggling and the garden will offer them a chance to ease bills by growing their own food,” Brandenburg.
He also hopes to have excess food grown in the garden donated to the local food pantry or a series of free dinner options around town that Brandenburg helps to coordinate.
The city approved granting use of the land to 1Eighty ministries last fall, said Scott Brunka, deputy city manager. The city is only allowing its land to be used for the gardens.
1Eighty Ministries and the Shade Tree Commission have worked with nearby Marvin’s Organic Gardens to make sure the garden is organic. They also plan to offer classes during the summer and provide tips on how to properly grow a garden.
The garden will be located on New Street behind the U.S. Post Office and the Academy Building.
The garden will be ready to plant around Mother’s Day, Marquis said. The garden will have approximately 300 plots of 5 feet by 10 feet, Brandenburg said. Plots will cost $25 to rent out, but scholarships will also be available.
To apply, visit www.1eighty.org.
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