What’s all that activity going on at the Pope Farm Homestead? It’s the Forward Garden!  This garden is part of a network of gardens in Dane County run by the Madison Area Food Pantry Gardens, a 501c3 non-profit organization.  All the produce from 3.5 acres currently planted will be donated to local food pantries and food banks over the next several months.

New Forward Garden Farm Manager, Matt Lechmaier has jumped into his new position with both feet and is looking forward to working with FOPFC members in making the first year of the garden a big success. Matt reports that more than 60 community members have been involved in planting, weeding and garden maintenance since early May and the need for additional help is ongoing with more than 20 different crops planted or approaching maturity. In fact, harvesting has begun. Broccoli, kale, and collard greens have been harvested so far. Cabbage, cilantro, and basil will be coming up soon. Mmmmm! Sounds like a feast in waiting!

So far, a number of the Friends have volunteered to help in the gardens and their efforts are greatly appreciated. If you’ve been helping out, a big thanks! If you have been thinking about it, there’s plenty to do!
The Forward Garden schedule is Tuesdays and Thursdays 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. and Wednesday mornings from 9-11 a.m.

Visit MAFPG’s website (http://www.foodpantrygardens.org), Facebook Page, and Instagram to stay up on what’s happening with the gardens at www.foodpantrygardens.org or contact the Forward Garden’s lead, Matt at Matt@foodpantrygardens.org or call 530-650-5301.