Student-driven community garden to take root

A student organization established earlier this year is preparing to break ground on a community garden to be located near the Storrs Building and the Robinson Hall for the Performing Arts.

Formation of the UNC Charlotte Community Garden resulted from efforts by seniors Jake Emerson, a mathematics major from Gastonia; Kevin Rodengen, an earth sciences major from Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; and Chloe Rodengen, a nursing major who also is from Fort Lauderdale. They worked with other student leaders and faculty and staff members in departments and disciplines across campus.

According to the students, who happen to be Levine Scholars, the goal is to “create a space that students can mold into their own. This project is about experimentation, education and building a campus community that can share in the excitement of sustainable practice.”

They added that learning how to eat healthily, grow their own food and organize educational programs for the campus around such topics are other outcomes for the community garden.

University leaders approved of the garden’s location behind the Storrs Building and beside Robinson Hall, and the UNC Charlotte Community Garden Build Day is scheduled for 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Friday, Sept. 26. The first phase will be the installation of eight to 12 raised, produce beds; a hammock lounge; and handicap-accessible pathways.

“We really want our fellow students to be part of this effort. So if you don’t mind getting your hands a little dirty, we hope you’ll come out and volunteer as part of our Build Day. Whether you plan to garden or not, stop by to enjoy free food, music and good company. Lettuce turnip the beet,” said Emerson and the Rodengens. Prospective volunteers can sign up online.

The student organization UNC Charlotte Community Garden also is seeking new members; weekly meetings are at 4 p.m., Tuesday, at the McMillan Greenhouse. Paula Gross, assistant director of the UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens, and Mike Lizotte, University sustainability officer, are advising the student-led effort.

Produce from the garden will go to campus dining services (Chartwells), Friendship Gardens and other student organization members and volunteers.

For more information on the UNC Charlotte Community Garden, email unccgarden@gmail.com.