There is so much to be learned from planting, working and harvesting a garden. I’m excited to be a part of a new community garden at 58th & 2nd Ave, and can’t wait to see all our seeds grow. It’s amazing to me the growing number of community gardens in our Sacramento area. One such garden is on the high school campus of Rio Americano.

A few years ago when I worked there full time in the Autism program, the teacher felt the need for his students to work with their hands out in a garden, and went about making it happen. The lessons ranged from building boxes, life cycles and cooking to the simplicity of knowing colors and what herbs are used for. While subbing in my old class this past week I was so proud to see the garden thriving, and the students an integral part of it’s success.The fruits, vegetables and herbs are able to be used in a number of capacities, one of which is full-circle cooking lessons with the special education program there. The pictures are of their little piece of Eden.  

Interested in getting involved in a community garden effort? There are SO many! This site has links and information to a bunch, but they're sprouting up all over as Sacramentans take pride in the land they have and giving back to the community.

http://www.cityofsacramento.org/ParksandRecreation/parks/community_garden.htm

For information on starting your own community garden effort? Check out this site for regulations, contact info and meeting times:

http://www.cityofsacramento.org/planning/policies-and-programs/community-gardens.cfm

-Juniper*James

www.juniperjames.wordpress.com

twitter: @JuniperJames