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   The Pine River-Backus Community Garden, located behind the High School (north) near the school forest and west of the football field, is hosting two more free educational gardening sessions on Thursdays, 6-7:30 p.m, which are open to the public.  August 15 will feature the role of flowers, pollinators and pest control, and September 12 will focus on harvest and preservation. Jim Etzel of Earth is Our Home Environmental Solutions in Hackensack will be guiding the free sessions, thanks in part to a Cass County SHIP (Statewide Health Improvement Project) grant.

   Also coming up, the PRB Community Garden, in conjunction with the Pine River Community Meals program by Brian Chaffee will host one of the Community Meals that will feature produce from the gardens. This is an opportunity for community members to see the gardens and learn how they work and how they can be involved in growing their own produce by renting a plot. Persons interested in growing yet this year, could sign up and plant cold weather crops like radishes, lettuces and other greens that could still be harvested this season. Persons could also rent now and prep a plot for next Spring’s planting.

   There are 15’x15’ plots ($15), a few raised beds 4’x8’x3’ ($10), and about 10 raised Garden Circles of various sizes ($10) available.  “Sweat equity” (labor) is also an option for the fee where the gardener can work with projects in the garden in exchange for a plot. Plot sign up is through PRB Community Education at https://prbschools.org/community-ed/ or call 218-587-2080.

   There are guidelines to follow: using organic / natural gardening methods (no chemical fertilizers) and strong encouragement to garden using no-till gardening method in order to build healthy soil with active microbiome. Each gardener signs an agreement agreeing to follow these guidelines.

   Additional benefits include a shared orchard and hoop house for extended season growing. If you are new to gardening, renting a plot is a great way to begin learning from other gardeners and participating in the classes offered. Learning is on-going for all gardeners and takes place as you work your own plot(s).

   Fees go towards: composted manure; natural soil amendments; straw for mulch; garden tools; soil testing; and tools. 

   The Community Garden was started in 2010. It is organized by a Garden Board in partnership with PRB Community Education to oversee and manage the particulars.  The monthly meetings are open to all gardeners.  Call Emalee Hedberg, PRB Community Ed Coordinator at 218-587-2080, to indicate interest or for more information.

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