Community garden mulled in Struthers

Staff report

Struthers

A nonprofit community garden is being considered for the former Struthers Croquet Club property.

The property, which is totally fenced with a lockable gate, is at the corner of Helena and Argonne streets. It is about 168 feet by 96 feet.

The individual garden plots would be 10 feet by 15 feet with a 3- to 4-foot walkway on all sides of each plot.

Each plot would be leased to an individual for a year at a time. The initial annual fee, tentatively $50, would be a deposit against expenses, primarily water. At the end of each season, an accounting would be done to determine actual cost. If costs total less than the amount of funds in the account a refund would be given. If costs exceed initial funding, a bill would be issued, according to a press release from the Davidson-Becker Family Center.

It would be the leaseholder’s responsibility for everything to be done with his/her plot including cultivation, planting, weeding, watering, harvest, etc. Any legal crop of vegetables, fruits or flowers, etc., may be grown.

Gardeners may cultivate the soil or may border their plot(s) with boards and add additional topsoil.

Entire operation of the facility to include layout, costs and fees will be governed by a board of directors elected from the leasing gardeners.

An initial informational meeting will be at 5 p.m. Tuesday at the family center, 10 Spring St. Weather permitting, a visit to the site will take place at that time.

There is no obligation with registration or attendance at the meeting.

Anyone interested should preregister by calling (330) 755-2111.