March 30, 2004
March 30, 2004
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Spring has arrived and promises the return of a new phase of nature's color, texture and beauty. Our thoughts move to connecting to nature through a variety of avenues. One of those valuable connections is the time we spend in our gardens and green spaces. Western Pennsylvania Conservancy's Community Conservation Program facilitates 170 community greening projects in 20 counties throughout western Pennsylvania. A key to the success and sustainability of these projects is our garden stewards. Garden stewards are individuals and groups that take on a wide range of responsibilities to help communities establish and sustain these stunning green spaces. The Community Conservation Program celebrated the first day of Spring, on Saturday March 20, 2004, by getting together with some 50 of its community garden stewards for a Spring Kickoff for Community Gardens. The 2004 event is geared to help stewards prepare for the intensive planting schedule in May, when over 300,000 annuals will be placed into this year's gardens. The garden stewards, and another 25 friends and supporters, met at WPC's new facility, the Barn at Fallingwater. The program included a review of the new Garden Steward's Handbook, a question and answer sessions focused on solving common challenges in the gardens and a panel discussion with five garden stewards who shared stories about their gardens. The meeting ended with additional stories from other stewards who described in moving detail the way the gardens have beautified communities, helped connect people—particularly children—to nature, and actually changed lives. The day closed with a special tour of Fallingwater. Anyone interested in becoming a garden steward or supporting this year's garden season as a volunteer or donor should contact the Community Conservation Program at (412) 586 2324. Click here to see our upcoming planting dates. Pictured today is Norman Simeone, garden steward for the community garden at Dormont Avenue and Banksville Road. Norman has been a garden steward for more than ten years and, is seen sharing how his garden has grown into a source of community pride, a teaching aid for a local school and a visual highpoint for area residents and visitors. E-mail Today's WPC Daily to a Friend!
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