The new Swannanoa Community Garden on Clover Lane (off Lake Eden Road, near the Veterans Nursing Home) is finally looking like a garden, thanks to the hard work of many volunteers of all ages. The garden is sponsored by Friends and Neighbors of Swannanoa (FANS) and is located on a beautiful parcel of land owned by the State and managed by the County. With horses grazing nearby and peaceful mountain views, it’s the perfect place to dig your hands in the dirt and unwind from the stresses of daily living.

The new garden shed is built and waiting for a coat of primer and paint. The ground has been prepared, and seeds New Garden Shed have been planted. To spice things up a bit, we’re experimenting with several different types of planting beds, and will monitor them throughout the growing season to see which ones perform the best. Most of the produce from this first year’s garden will be going to our local food banks and pantries. By next year, we plan to have plots of various sizes available for rent to members of the community.

Much work remains to be done, and volunteers are always needed. No matter your experience or age, we can find a job for you! If you’d like to help out, please call 581-9020.

And we’re pleased to report that all the plots have been rented at our existing community garden on Lanier Lane in Grovemont. FANS has sponsored this garden for the last several years on land generously donated for this purpose by long-time Valley resident Bill Alexander. Plots are rented to community members for a nominal annual fee to help cover expenses.