Each participating organization will be required to maintain an 8' x 8' raised bed. Representatives, members, and/or employees of these businesses/ organizations will maintain that space. Areas external to the beds are maintained by a local landscaping firm. The participating organizations are invited to plant a variety of approved plants that are aesthetically appealing, non-invasive, and benefic
ial. In addition to the aesthetic appeal, we also want the space to serve informational and educational purposes. Each little "plot" will have a sign that describes the selected plant life (e.g., these herbs were selected for their fragrance, culinary, and medicinal uses, these flowers were selected for their showy bloom, etc.) and which local business/organization is maintaining that bed. The hope is that Main Street businesses and those maintaining the raised beds will benefit from pedestrian use the space. There are also efforts focused on the use of artwork in the space to attract residents and tourists to the garden area, highlighting local talent. Fundraisers and events are planned to involve community members in various aspects of the project. At present, we are hoping to get ideas on what community members (of all ages) would like to see in the space: custom-designed pavers, sculptures, birdbaths, birdhouses, murals, mosaics, etc. We also want to know how community members envision their own contributions: helping install raised beds, filling raised beds with soil, promoting a fundraising event through social media, attending a fundraising dinner or art class. The Downtown Gardens rely on community members' donations, in-kind donations, volunteered services, and funds raised from special events to cover materials, construction and maintenance expenses. Your donations promote a successful project!
