Although currently covered in snow, the Sharing Garden in Marshall, Sask. will soon bloom again, offering fresh produce to the community.
Berna Huber, a representative for the Sharing Garden, said the garden was named during its first year by community members.
“We had lots of suggestions but we decided on ‘Sharing Garden’ because it fit the whole concept.”
The project began two years ago after the town of Marshall provided a plot of land. Volunteers improved the area with truckloads of manure to prepare the soil. Last summer, the garden yielded a large harvest, including potatoes, peas, corn, cabbage, tomatoes, and cucumbers. Raspberry bushes, cherry trees, and apple trees were also planted, with plans to add more crops each year. The garden is open to everyone in the community.
“Anyone can come pick,” Huber explained. “We also ask for help to maintain it. It’s a give-and-take system.”
Local schools are involved as well. Students visit the garden to learn about planting and harvesting.
“We even brought in a horse and wagon to take the kids to the garden,” Huber said. “They loved it and stayed focused the entire time.”
Additionally, the garden’s produce supports the local food bank and residents in need.
“We had a man in a wheelchair come by, and we harvested some items for him,” said Huber. “It’s really about sharing and helping.”
The Sharing Garden has become a crucial community builder and has become a part of the annual “Spring into Marshall” celebration held on the first Saturday of June.
Vendors, activities, and raffles raise funds to sustain the garden and other community projects.
For Huber, the garden is more than just a source of food.
“It’s healing and good for the soul,” she said. “It brings people together and feeds both the body and the spirit.”
To learn more about the Sharing Garden or participate in upcoming events, visit the “We Are Marshall” Facebook group.
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