Elks Donate to Marion Community Garden Project

Marion Elks Lodge 32 is donating over $1,000 to the Marion Community Garden project, through an Elks National Foundation Gratuity Grant and the donations of local Elks members.  The project organizer, Terry Cline, says the funds will be used to pay for expenses like tilling the ground, fertilizer, mulch, plot markers and area upkeep.

Any Marion resident can book a ten-foot square plot within the Marion Community Garden, located at the site of the former Mark Street Elementary School at the corner of Mark and Greenwood Streets. Property owner Clifford Hall has donated the use of the property, where community members can grow vegetables, flowers - whatever they choose. There is room for up to 200 pre-registered gardens. All gardens must be registered in advance.

The project has recruited many volunteers to assist, and has drawn community support from many areas. The Marion Public Health Department is supporting the Community Garden in part through an Ohio Department of Health grant entitled “Creating Healthy Communities,” which encourages fresh vegetable consumption.  Morral Companies donated the soil testing. “Plus the local Marion media is helping to promote the idea and healthy benefits of a widespread community project like this,” said Cline. “So many people have volunteered to help and are lending their time to ensure this project is a success. What a great reflection on our community!’ he added.

There will be a special ceremony to open the Marion Community Garden at the site on May 21st at 9:15 AM. For more information, or to register for your own garden area, please call 389-2400, or email marioncommunitygarden2011@gmail.com.