Crabtree Farms is partnering with the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation Office of Sustainable Practices to offer a free Community Garden Workshop atCrabtree Farms, 1000 E. 30th St. in Chattanooga on Tuesday, Sept. 30 from 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
The workshop will include a number of speakers who are experts in their fields, and is aimed at anyone involved in a community garden, from very beginners to the very experienced. The workshop will provide instruction, as well as a networking opportunity and potential garden resources. Lunch from Famous Nater’s World Famous will be provided.
“We’re thrilled to be partnering with TDEC to bring this excellent workshop to our community,” says Sara McIntyre, executive director of Crabtree Farms. “Chattanooga was chosen as one of three cities in Tennessee where TDEC’s trainings will take place. We’re honored that Crabtree Farms could host such an event.”
Ms. McIntyre will offer tips for growing a successful garden, and University of Tennessee Hamilton County Extension Agent, Tom Stebbins, will instruct participants on pest identification and management. Keith and Katie Bien, certified permaculture designers and owners of Wildwood Harvest Farm, will be offering a session on permaculture and methods of incorporating permaculture design in a community garden. The final session will include a discussion on community engagement and partnerships with Chris Peterson, executive director of Grow Memphis. Community gardeners will have the opportunity to share their experiences and challenges while networking with one another during that session.
The workshop will end with a tour of Crabtree Farms. The tour will include a tool demonstration as well as an opportunity to learn about growing in raised beds and volunteer recruitment. The complete itinerary for the workshop is available on Crabtree Farms’ website: http://crabtreefarms.org/events/community-garden-workshop-2
Space is limited to 25 participants, and registration is required. Register online at http://crabtreefarms.org/events/community-garden-workshop-2 or by calling Leila Donn at 615-532-0079.