New Community Garden Unveiled at Northshore YMCA in Bothell
/In mid-November, a small group of invested supporters — Northshore YMCA staff, City of Bothell elected officials and staff, and Snohomish Conservation District staff— gathered at the Northshore YMCA in Bothell for the official unveiling of their new community garden. The garden, situated on the back side of the building, includes ten raised beds, two rain barrels, and multiple fruit trees. The installation was completed by our Urban Agriculture Program Coordinator, Joe Crumbley.
Who will benefit?
In partnership with the Northshore School District, the Northshore YMCA is currently a Totes to Go program hub where school nurses and social workers can pick up discreet bags or backpacks containing meals for students enrolled in the free and reduced lunch program. The community garden will provide fresh fruits and vegetables that can be included in those meals, along with nonperishable items.
The food grown in the garden will also benefit students in the YMCA's afterschool programs. Students will be involved in growing and harvesting, which will give them the chance to enjoy fresh food, become more connected to where it comes from, and learn about urban agriculture.
Who will maintain the garden space?
YMCA staff will maintain the garden, with help from youth enrolled in the YMCA's afterschool and summer programming. Drip irrigation installed in the garden will reduce the labor involved in watering and the gravel surrounding the raised beds will help minimize the need for weeding.
