Since April, Ali Bendure and a small group of volunteers have worked to create an opportunity for people to collaborate on a project that benefits the community.
The Dresden Community Garden began taking shape in April when compost was hauled in and raised beds were constructed.
Planting began in mid-May. Some of the vegetables that were planted included tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, squash and peppers.
Any help is welcome and appreciated and anyone can pitch in whenever they are available. There is no signup or a set schedule. Weeding and tending to the garden would be a great summer activity for families and the beds have plenty of distance between them so there is space for everyone to work together.
“This garden has been talked about for a few years now, it just never took off. But now we are making it happen and it really looks great,” said Ali.
“Big thanks to Dresden&Co and Jim Lepi for the lot, sign, and all of the basics. Thanks to Lones Landscaping and Excavating for the compost to fill all of the beds. Ruth United, Cam West, Sam and Christabell Wagner, and The Dresden Garden Center for the donation of plants. Big thanks to my family (especially my children, husband, and dad) for putting up with all of my crazy ideas for this town and helping me whenever I ask.”
If you would like to help there is a lot that is still needed for the garden. The list includes more helping hands who are willing to weed, a cattle panel/fence that is about 8ft long or a large trellis for an eight food bed for squash, cucumber and zucchini, and there is an 8’ x 8’ x 7’ shed that needs to be moved from Chestnut Street to the garden.
“The raised beds are for the entire community this year. Everything was donated and all work has been volunteer. When it comes time to harvest, first pick will go to the volunteers and donors, after that it will be on a first come basis. The “rules” will be only take what you can eat before they go to waste, be respectful, and leave some for everyone.”
Ali has plans to use the garden space to host fun activities this summer and in the future. If anyone has questions or supplies for the garden they can reach Ali at ap268706@gmail.com or on The Dresden Community Garden Facebook Page!
