A small crowd that gathered for the groundbreaking of the Harrison Community Garden was “excited to get growing,” organizers said.
The project from the Highlands Partnership Network and Citizens Hose Fire-EMS-Rescue will see a one-acre public garden near the firehouse off of Burtner Road.
“HPN is really excited to get to today,” said Misty Chybrzynski Woody, steering committee member. “To finally break ground on the project that partners have been working on for about a year is meaningful.”
A spring event will see veggies, herbs and fruit planted. Harvests are hoped to help battle food insecurity for people throughout the township.
Other unique features of the garden will be a bike-sharing program and tool-lending library.
“We hope the garden network will provide opportunity for members in the community to get to know each other, become food sustainable or even bike with their families and friends,” Woody said.
She thanked state Sen. Lindsey Williams, who helped secure a $50,000 grant to help pay for the project.
Woody said the Highlands Partnership Network and its partners recognize the lack of access to fresh food and transportation options in the area. She said the garden and bike share are expected to alleviate some of the burdens, she said.
Autumn Monaghan, network co-chair, is excited the garden will offer free fresh produce but also teach people how to grow their own food, make healthier food choices and offer a place to do it together.
