Syracuse is getting a community garden and it open for anyone who would like to utilize it.

“A Place to Grow,” as the garden has been dubbed, will provide garden space for those interested. The space will also be used for the teaching of gardening and food preserving skills to area families interested in enhancing their ability to feed themselves. 

The idea for the garden started with Diana Woolley, who has been raising food for her family for many years. “With the economy sliding the past couple of years, I thought it would be great if I could help other people do what I do, and learn what can be done to help themselves if they need it.” She talked the idea over with friends at her church, and a steering committee was formed to plan the garden project. An acre of ground at Quaker Haven camp has been set aside for the garden.

The idea of this community garden is to provide a plot of ground to people who want a place to grow food. If necessary, those who need skills and encouragement will be paired with a family that is willing to share what they know.

“Growth teams” will be responsible for their own garden plot. The team will decide what they want to grow based on their individual needs. Each team will share work responsibilities and get to keep what they grow. All that is asked is that a family that commits to the project stays with it for the entire garden season, and that 10 percent of what is grown is donated back to a food pantry, or some other charity.

Canning, drying and other preservation skills will also be taught. An end of the year harvest banquet is also planned.

Gardeners who need a place to grow, those who want to learn, and those willing to share their skills are being sought for this kick-off season. Expert gardeners who can provide guidance but may already have a place to grow things are also welcome to pitch in.

The garden is open to anyone willing to put in a little hard work. There will be a small participation fee of $20 per household. The fee will be applied toward the cost of plants and seeds.

Interested parties can contact Diana at 574-457-4745. More information is also available at www.dewartlakefriends.org. Sign up sheets are also available at the Syracuse and Milford food pantries.