Salisbury, New Brunswick
Please describe your garden, is it raised beds, in the ground, do you have a greenhouse?
We are currently in the process of building a greenhouse for our school. An agriculture student, Noah, has teamed up with a carpentry student, Maria for this project. The idea is that the agriculture students will grow produce for our breakfast and lunch program as well as for our culinary classes. Extra food can be provided to either the local food bank or to send home with students in our school.
What vegetables/fruit do you grow in your garden? What do you have a difficult time growing in your school garden?
We are just in the beginning stages but the plan is for a variety of vegetables and herbs.
Why did your school decide to add a school garden?
Originally we planned on installing a hydroponic tower garden in our school when we first applied for the grant. Our students in the Essential Skills Program identified a need for fresh grown produce in our school as we have a large population of students who deal with food insecurities. As part of their Capstone projects, the two students decided to combine their skills and work together to get the project off the ground. With permission from Nutrients for Life, we did a pivot from the original plan to creating the current greenhouse project.
What classes participate in the garden, what subjects are taught in the garden?
The Essential Skills students are doing the building and initial set-up. The agriculture class will be involved in the on-going growing as well as younger grades will be invited in to help grow produce and engage in some learning experiences tied into the growing process.
Who manages the garden day to day? Who manages the garden over the Summer break?
Our student, Noah, will take the lead on the initial management and local volunteers will help manage the garden over the summer. In the fall, the agriculture teacher will then, with their class, take over the management of the greenhouse.
What do you do with the harvest from your garden? Do you have a harvest celebration? Do you use it in the cafeteria, or culinary classes? Do you donate some of the produce?
We have not grown any produce as of yet.
Do you have community involvement? Do you have parents and volunteers? Have been able to source other funding to help your garden grow?
We are looking at some private funding partnerships to assist with the further funds we need and we have one benefactor thus far. Fundraising efforts will be undertaken if necessary. Volunteers will be sought out as well, once the greenhouse is completed.
What are your future plans for the school garden?
To grow produce for breakfast and lunch programs, to provide for the culinary class and to have classes use the garden to support their curriculum
Any words of encouragement/tips for a school starting a school garden?
We are just starting this project, but it certainly generates a lot of interest of offers of help.
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