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Community garden one step closer to reality

Posted 4/27/16

The Town of Fountain Hills is one step closer to having its own community garden after the Town Council last week approved a motion to have staff prepare a lease for land adjacent to the library, as …

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Community garden one step closer to reality

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The Town of Fountain Hills is one step closer to having its own community garden after the Town Council last week approved a motion to have staff prepare a lease for land adjacent to the library, as well as assist with the installation of a water meter and provide site prep.

Staff will work with the Town Attorney to prepare documents for review and possible approval at a future meeting.

This motion followed a presentation by Dr. Iyoti Patel, speaking on behalf of the Fountain Hills Community Garden.

Now under the umbrella of the Fountain Hills Cultural and Civic Association, organizers have gotten the ball rolling on bringing a community garden to Fountain Hills.

During her presentation, Dr. Patel explained that the Fountain Hills Community Garden is a “grass roots effort by like-minded residents with a desire to create a safe, green space for children and adults.”

The plot being considered for the garden is 1.8 acres of Town-owned lands adjacent to the Fountain Hills Library and its parking lot. Along with plenty of space for the garden, the site also provides easy access to water and power. The Community Garden is seeking a $1 annual lease for the land, as well as assistance with installing a water meter and prepping the site. All other costs would be covered by fundraising efforts, future memberships, class fees, etc.

Master Gardeners volunteering for the project will teach residents how to create an organic garden and raise beds using low-water practices.

“This nurturing garden will build a sense of community, provide gardening lessons for children and adults, grow nutritious organic produce and beautify our town,” Patel said.

“There is a plan to create youth programs that promote personal development, service to our community and learning valuable life skills. The garden will promote eco-friendly, energy-conserving techniques to teach our residents about water conservation, composting and use of recycled materials.”

According to the plan, a small amphitheater would rest at the back of the garden with a concrete stage and low rock wall seating. Along with picnic tables, a grill and storage, there is plenty of room designated for garden areas, additional seating, a compost area, greenhouses, perimeter landscaping, and more.

The garden would be surrounded by security fencing when closed and staffed by volunteers and Master Gardeners throughout the day.

Patea said that the garden could also provide space for additional art, as well as garden plots available for rent by residents. A botanical garden, hummingbird garden and zen garden are also part of the plan.

While the Town works with Community Garden members to prepare a possible agreement for the land, organizers are on the lookout for support from the community to plan and help raise funds for the site.

Additional information can be found at fhcultural-civic.org by clicking the “Fountain Hills Community Garden” tab on the left of the page. The group can also be found on Facebook by searching for “Fountain Hills Community Garden.”

Organizers are looking for volunteers to join several teams including an administrative team to work with the town and vendors and manage a budget; a donations and fundraising team; a membership and marketing team; a construction and volunteer team and a garden design and teaching team.

While donations can be made directly online, contributions can also be mailed to FH Community Garden, c/o FH Cultural & Civic Assoc. P.O. Box 18254 Fountain Hills, AZ 85269-8254.