The Macomb Community Garden is looking forward to growing this year -- growing crops and growing membership.
An informational meeting will be held Wednesday, March 7 at 7:00 pm in the Community Room at Macomb City Hall.
Chairman John Miller said the garden provides an opportunity for those who want to garden but cannot do so at home because of poor soil, too much shade, or some other issue.
“We also provide resources for those who want to garden but have never gardened before or don't know how to garden,” Miller said. “The idea is for us to all work together to learn how to become more effective gardeners and grow your own local food.”
Garden member Heather McIlvaine-Newsad said the garden has given her a chance to meet people she otherwise might not know.
“There are WIU students. There are international students. There are people from the Housing Authority. I didn't really know John (Miller) beforehand,” McIlvaine-Newsad said. “So for me it's not just about growing vegetables. It's about growing community as well.”
A single plot is $20. The charge for each additional plot is $10. The garden is along East Wheeler Street near Prairieview Homes. Miller said there is plenty of room to expand so he hopes new members will sign up this year.
He also said gardeners are welcome to bring their own tools, but there are plenty on site for everyone to share. McIlvaine-Newsad said the group will also accept donated tools from individuals or businesses.
Community Garden Vice Chairman Rob Porter said the group recently incorporated as a non-profit under Prairie Hills Resource Conservation and Development.
“They were gracious enough to allow us to become a part of their non-profit, which then opens us up for specific grants and donations to make this a full-time, self-sufficient entity,” Porter said.
Porter said they've also tried to make the garden accessible to those with disabilities.
The Macomb Community Garden will also hold a meeting the following Wednesday, March 14, beginning at 6:00 pm in the Community Room at Prairieview Homes.
