The middle school garden was not cared for during the ’20-’21 winter of the pandemic. Vines grew over the trees, and structures. Perennial plants were not watered during the dry season. Then came the summer storms. Trees blew over, damaging structures and blocking pathways. Little rivers of water surged through depositing trash and covering garden beds with sand and gravel. The list of devastation goes on and on.
If you knew what the school gardens used to look like, and you know what they look like today, the difference is very disheartening. There has been an effort to encourage the local residents to become more involved and take on more responsibilities. But the response has been more than lackluster.
It is little wonder that many in the community say the garden project is … not worth supporting any more.
I would like to present some reasons as to why the project is STILL WORTH SUPPORTING.
1. There is an incredible volunteer, Peter Earley, who in November and December alone, has probably put in more than 210 hours - working six days a week every morning from at least 8 AM until noon. Since the students have NOT been able to come from the school this year, it has weighed heavily on him. Your sincere support, in ANY FORM, will inspire him to continue.
2. Over the years HUNDREDS of students have come to the gardens to learn about planting, harvesting and selling their produce at the weekly community market. Past supporters should be proud to know that the project has created positive memories and far reaching influences that survive despite the present physical damages.
3. We are exploring ways students can be involved while avoiding bureaucratic challenges. For instance, a youth Garden or Nature Club could offer fun after school activities like scavenger hunts, games, and arts & crafts.
4. We take the setbacks and challenges as a learning opportunity. The trespass of livestock continues to cause significant damage. We plan to construct a simple wire fence them from entering the small area where we are currently actively growing crops.
- The wire materials for the fence cost about $150 USD /$3000 MXN. Any cash donation you can make to Peter would be HIGHLY appreciated. If we can raise more than this amount then we should be able to hire efficient workers (i.e. professional fence builders)
- You can help us clear a path for the new fence. You can plant particular trees along the fence line that become "living fence posts" over time.
Your comments and feedback are always welcome.
brandonlloyd@hotmail.com
https://www.huachucagave.com/garden-project
376
Message Thread
« Back to index | View thread »
Be sure to visit www.lamanzanilla.info for more information about La Manzanilla Mexico.