Community Garden Proposal Essay

With the obesity epidemic fully underway, I would use my $1,000 to help prevent obesity by opening up a small, low cost, nonprofit, community garden and garden stand. This garden would be run by me, my family, and the community. I think an ideal location for this garden and stand would be near the Princeville Heritage Museum which is also located less than a half mile from our school and within walking distance of most houses in town. By having the garden next to the school and museum, it would encourage students to pick up healthy food before or after school and allow them to learn more about their community's history through the museum. Starting a community garden in my small town would allow all families access to nutritious fresh fruits …show more content…
I would print flyers describing what food would be available, how to volunteer, and other useful information regarding the garden. Additionally, 70% of plants grown would be perennial plants such as fruit trees, strawberry plants, and grapevines (mostly fruits) as opposed to annual plants like sweet corn and potatoes. By making most of my plants perennial I will be able to save money as well as reduce erosion. The early stages of the perennial plants would be grown in our school’s small greenhouse kept by the student FFA chapter. The other 30% of plants will be annual plants started from seeds and grown in our school’s greenhouse until they are mature enough to be move into the garden. Keeping these plants in a greenhouse reduces threats during the most vulnerable stages in life while,in turn, saving money. Gardeners could be encouraged to begin composting their kitchen wastes and contributing it to the garden. Lastly, I will be able to directly impact my community by providing fresh fruits and vegetables to my school cafeteria and the greater community for very little