Foundation for Amateur International Radio Service, Ltd.

FAIRS Helps:  Floyd Community Garden is Looking Good!

A community garden has been established for use by individuals and organizations as a wholesome activity, and/or to produce healthy food items to share.  The mission of the coordinators is to improve health and reduce hunger in Floyd County by increasing access to local, “good for you” foods, and to build community links.  Special support is offered for first-time gardeners, and those with physical, mental or financial challenges.

On land which has been offered for $1/year lease by FAIRS, esteemed citizens are working toward 30 plots which are 10’ x 10’ each, available to participants by approved application and agreement.  The Plenty! Group is overseeing the project (Karen Day and McCabe Coolidge are co-founders – more information at www.plentylocal.org).  The community garden effort was initiated by Marcie Stout of Heavenly Mountain Acupuncture at Northside Plaza (½ mile north of stoplight in Floyd on Rt.8).  HMA is located next to the garden.

Water for the community garden will be available by one or more large rain barrels installed by Plenty! and by water from a pump house provided by FAIRS.  It is anticipated that the garden will be organic, and will be made up of vegetables, berries, and herbs.  An organic spray may be used to keep the deer away.  Classes by Plenty! (or other experienced gardeners)related to organic gardening techniques may be expected.

Garden planting was in full swing by Memorial Day 2010 - see pictures at photo gallery http://www.fairs.org/galleries/floyd-community-garden---summer-2010/ (click this link).

You might be interested in reserving a plot if you are:

                        -an individual in need of space, advice or support to start gardening

                        -a group who wants to enjoy the fun & challenge of gardening together

                        -a church or civic group who wants to grow food to share with neighbors

                        -a farmer or gardener who wants to display and share your talent and/or product

Special thanks to all businesses which have assisted in this effort, to the knowledgeable people who are keeping the momentum going, and for the public interest which has been an encouragement. 

Donations of supplies, tools or labor are welcomed – contact Karen Day at 540-357-5657, or e-mail plenty@swva.net.