Communities are always asking questions on how to strengthen and grow better neighborhoods. A growing trend of community gardens has stepped up to answer those questions. Taking a vacant lot or plot of land that would otherwise sit empty with no active purpose and turning it into a sustainable community garden has a lot more effect on a neighborhood than it may seem at first.

These gardens, like the few that are popping up around Warren County, have the potential to be a huge catalyst in creating a stronger bond amongst our residents. Community gardens increase a sense of community ownership, which fosters the development of identity and team spirit. A simple garden that is available to anyone who wants to be involved could be the bridge to connect people regardless of age, race, culture or social class within a community or neighborhood.

With sky-high prices for fresh produce, community gardens provide people with fruits and vegetables that they may otherwise never be able to afford to have. This in turn promotes healthier food choices, a more active lifestyle and a thriving community. Studies show that eating locally produced food reduces asthma rates, because people are able to consume local pollen, in manageable amounts, and develop immunities.

Community gardens are great tools for crime prevention within its neighborhood. You find opportunity to meet your neighbors, build neighborhood associations and with a rise in outdoor activity, there are more eyes on the street. Caring for a communal space gives people a sense of responsibility toward each other and they are more likely to look out for each other in all areas of interaction.

A community garden is a charitable endeavor that allows people to give back to the community. It increases environmental awareness in children, and improves the environment around it by restoring oxygen, reducing air pollution and recycling organic waste.

With many empty lots and acreage in our area, a community garden is an economic solution to improve our neighborhoods and strength our relationships and interaction with each other.

If you are interested in starting a community garden in your area, the American Community Gardening Association website is a great resource to learn more about the benefits and how to get started. http://communitygarden.org