Hale-YMCA Gardens in Blackburg, Virginia Are Growing

Whether because of an economy in recession, increasing worries about the dangers of chemical pesticides and fertilizers, or simply a need to get back to a more holistic approach to food production, community gardens are sprouting up all across the US.

The YMCA in Blacksburg, Virginia is ahead of the curve on this one. Gardeners affiliated with the YMCA joined forces in 1977 to create the first community gardens in the area. After that, the community gardens expanded to encompass several sites around Blacksburg.

Then, in 2008, a generous land donation of a 15 acre site lead to the consolidation and strengthening of the community garden program. Since then, the site has been developed with a solar greenhouse, paths, and plots for members of the community to grow their own produce.

In addition to the land-plots available for individual community members, part of the gardens are worked by volunteers, with the produce going to supplement food donated to food banks. The YMCA hopes to expand this program through 2010 and beyond, as a way to provide people of all income levels with fresh, healthy, organic produce.

The plans for this community garden are growing rapidly. Early in February of 2010, the YMCA hosted a meeting about the Hale-YMCA Community Gardens. Many members of the community attended to ask about plots, learn more about the design of the gardens, and volunteer their services.

An important aspect of the Hale-YMCA gardens is including the principles of permaculture. In a permaculture garden, plants are grouped together based on mutually beneficial relationships. For example, certain types of fruit trees (such as cherry trees) benefit from having certain types of herbs (such as thyme) planted nearby. Using the principles of permaculture strengthen the garden by increasing resistance to pests and infections, and also increase the fertility of the soil so that the garden can produce more bountiful harvests.

The dedicated garden volunteers will meet throughout the spring to prepare the gardens, and then throughout the summer and fall to tend and harvest. The gardens are also made possible by the generous donations of local individuals and businesses.