For a look at what can be done by individuals working for themselves within an active community project, a tour of Richmond’s community gardens is inspirational.
The city of Richmond has a partnership with an organization called Urban Bounty. The arrangement provides city property to be used by community members who rent garden plots. These plots are distributed around Richmond and are used for growing food, flowers and other plants.
The gardens encourage community interaction — a chance for the gardeners to meet and interact. All this and healthy outdoor exercise yields edible produce for those who grow for food.
Urban Bounty is responsible for the oversight of 16 garden locations. This includes providing some common tools for designated gardeners at these locations.
The project involves over 760 members of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. Some are expert gardeners, others are beginners who have taken up the productive hobby.
The fruits and vegetables grown in each plot belong to the registered gardeners. The food cannot be sold or used commercially.
Urban Bounty is responsible for arranging the plot rentals and acts as a liaison between the gardeners and the city. They also maintain a waiting list for garden plots and ensure that only organic growing methods are being used and put on workshops.
Plot fees are charged, which help support a portion of the costs of running the garden program.
There is also the opportunity to sign up for a plot at the new Alexandra Community Garden at 9620 Odlin Rd. This garden will open this fall with 34 regular plots and two accessible plots.
For more information about the community garden program and garden locations, click here.
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