School project receives ‘overwhelming response’
A new project taking place at two Rockford school locations has grabbed the attention of the community and is about more than just growing vegetables and flowers. Rockford Community Services (RCS) has two community garden locations. One is located behind the administration building with 40 raised beds. The second location is at East Rockford Middle School (ERMS). The ERMS garden has 14 raised beds.
“There has been such an overwhelming response for the 2011 growing season,” said Nancy Seeley of RCS. “Both locations are sold out!”
On Saturday, May 7, many of the community gardeners came out to help build the raised beds. The beds were completed by hardworking gardeners, volunteers and Rockford Public Schools staff. The rest of the work was completed by gardeners themselves. They have been very creative and many have planted vegetables, fruit bushes and flowers in their beds. The beds will belong to the same gardener as long as they choose to participate. Many are planting the garden beds with the intent of keeping the same location.
The Rockford High School construction class also assisted with placing a garden shed at each location. No garden is complete without a shed. RCS and community gardeners appreciate all the hard work the high school students put into the sheds and adding a much needed feature to each location.
The 2011 growing season seems to be off to a great start. Many gardeners are looking forward to a fruitful first year.
For more information about the gardens, please contact RCS or Nancy Seeley at (616) 863-6322 and look for more updates and information on the progress of the Rockford Community Gardens.
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