Since early 2007, inspired by the idea of improving access to locally grown food, a group of area residents had pursued the idea of a community garden in South Kingstown. In May of 2008, through the assistance of the Town of South Kingstown,a half acre open field was secured on the grounds of Broad Rock Middle School. Over the next year, construction and preparation of the garden was underway. The field was plowed and harrowed, with the help of local friends, including David Gregg, who kindly brought tractors to the site.A power auger was loaned by Liberty Rental, post holes were drilled, and a 9 foot deer fence was built to surround the whole half acre. Thanks to master carpenter Bruce Decker, the garden fence was given a robust and beautiful cedar entrance gate.A beautiful handpainted sign was created by Dennis Condon.  High school teacher, builder and avid gardener/local food advocate John O'Malley built the tool shed.The information kiosk at the gate was constructed by builder Chris DePaola.

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The garden layout of individual plots was designed by David Floyd, and,with the cooperation of the Town of South Kingstown and Broad Rock Middle School, an irrigation system was installed, designed by URI Plant Science Chair Brian Maynard. This system makes our community garden infinitely easier to utilize than similar gardens in some other localities, where, if conditions are dry, water has to be brought in. At SKCG, there are water lines running off the main line to supply water to each row, and which provide access to water for each individual plot!   

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SKCG was established as a non-profit with the State of Rhode Island, with the help of garden members and founding group members Lisa Wright and Roger Spackman. It is run year to year by an elected governing board, and garden by-laws ensure smooth and consistent operation.

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Today SKCG has 45 plots, for use by individuals and families, with several plots set aside for use by the middle school and to grow food for the Jonnycake Center Emergency Food Pantry!

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The garden has been committed to organic growing since its inception, with no pesticides used at the site.  We utilize best practices to be energy and water efficient,and there is a cistern for rainwater collection. In addition to member's plots, we have community areas on the site, for growing asparagus, rhubarb, berries, herbs and flowers for the use and enjoyment of the garden community. We do on-site composting, share tools, seeds, plants, and expertise. We collaborate with two local beekeepers who have two active beehives adjacent to the fenced-in garden area. The garden offers great opportunies for hands-on education. Our garden environment is child-friendly, and there is a history of collaboration with teachers at the middle school who have wanted to use a garden plot at SKCG for a learning site.

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As another aspect of "community," we encourage members to share a portion of the produce they grow in their own plots with the Jonnycake Center's Emergency Food Pantry. We deliver produce to them several times a week. 

 

We have a diverse and friendly community of gardeners here, and we are always learning from each other.Everyone works hard to keep the garden space well-maintained. In addition, volunteers to help with garden operations are always  welcome.

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Thanks for taking the time to learn more about SKCG!