Who is Utah G.A.R.D.E.N.S. Inc.
Utah G.A.R.D.E.N.S. Inc. is a non profit community gardening organization formed in 2001. We are dedicated to enhancing our communities and participants through the development, installation and maintenance of sustainable community gardens and greening projects. By coordinating educational components and civic involvement, we strive to have gardens become places of community building and participant empowerment. We rely on volunteers to help build our gardens and our programs. If you would like to be engaged in a fun opportunity, please contact us.
What is community gardening?
Well, basically community gardening has no set standard to follow. It is simple coming together on a common piece of ground to garden together. It focuses on gardening and on building a sense of friendship among those participating. In many cases, community gardens become community commons, hosting block parties, social celebrations and many fun community building activities. Of course, community gardening also helps give many people in highly urban areas the opportunity to grow their own fresh fruits and vegetables.
Community gardening crosses social barriers. It does not know income guidelines, racial backgrounds, orientations or genders. It brings people together who enjoy being outside in the garden.
What are the roots of community gardens?
Today's "community gardens" are actually the offshoots off "victory gardens". In the early 20th century, much of the food being raised was shipped oversees to feed the allied troops. This created food shortages at home. In both World Wars, victory gardens were encouraged as a way to keep food costs stable while allowing more produce to be grown to support the soldiers. In 1944, when victory gardens were at their height of production, approximately 40% of the nations food was being produced in local gardens. Today, the oldest victory garden still gardening is Fenway Victory Garden in Boston.
