What are Community Gardens?

Community Gardens are sites used for growing plants for food, fiber, herbs and flowers, which are shared and maintained by nearby residents. Community gardening improves the quality of life for people by providing a catalyst for neighborhood and community development, stimulating social interaction, encouraging self-reliance, beautifying neighborhoods, producing nutritious food, reducing family food budgets, conserving resources and creating opportunities for recreation, exercise, therapy and education.

• Download the Carroll Terrace Community Garden brochure
• Download the Orchard Manor Community Garden brochure

Who can participate?

Depending on the type of Community Garden designed, the participants can include:

• Residents of low income housing developments
• Residents of apartment complexes
• Church communities
• Local schools and universities
• Rehabilitation facilities
• Retirement homes, etc.

Charleston Housing residents on a first come-first served basis.

How can you help?

The simple act of volunteering can make a tremendous difference in the lives of others. You can help by getting involved. By donating your time or services, the future prosperity of this project and other projects is that much brighter.

If you would like more information about volunteering at the garden site, or about creating your own community garden, please contact:

Melissa Wheeler
Extension Agent for Agriculture and Natural Resources
(304) 532-1670
williaml@wvstateu.edu

John Harper
Extension Agent for Community Development
(304) 552-8039
johnharper@charterinternet.com

Or call toll-free 1-866-WV-STATE