Community Garden Update: First Meeting of the Garden - April 6, 2013

Our first Community Garden meeting found us at River's Edge Park standing outside the tool shed in a cold mist that chilled us to the core. We had hoped for better weather, as we had seen several sunny days in March. But springtime in Montana is unpredictable; much of the snow is gone, the skies are bleak, and it often feels colder than winter. Despite the weather and the gray landscape, we were eager to get started with our vegetable garden plans. 

The tool shed was shown to us and we were told that anything in the shed was available for our use. We were reminded that the Community Garden was to be completely organic, no chemical pesticides of any kind could be used. There would be some community plots - garlic, onions, raspberries, squash, potatoes, strawberries, and more - for which we would all share in the harvest. And as community gardeners, there would be chores - weeding, mowing, and watering - for which we would sign up. 

Our 12 x 12 plots were assigned and had to be planted by June 1st. Otherwise, plots would be forfeited to others who were on the waiting list. Our family took two, paid our $20.00 deposit, and received our keys to the garden. 

Husband David with the cammo cap to the left of lady in the dark-blue/light-blue two-tone coat.

It was official. We were now members of the Columbia Falls Community Garden. We had already brainstormed some ideas and had a few definite thoughts on what we would plant.

Mallory looks at the barren plots.

Walking around to get a feel of the place and look at our plots brought up questions as to which direction our rows should face. North to south, or east to west?

Looking at our garden plots.

It was time to go home and do some additional research and planning.

A view of River's Edge Park.

This was the beginning of our first organic garden.