Grants available to fund community gardens

Kansas cities and towns wishing to establish community gardens are eligible to apply for a start-up grant from the Kansas Community Gardens Project.The new statewide opportunity is funded by the Kansas Health Foundation and administered by K-State Research and Extension, said Evelyn Neier, project coordinator.

The project is intended to provide funding for up to 20 gardens in each of the next three years (2012-2014) to increase public interest in community gardening and encourage growing of health-promoting fruits and vegetables, said Neier, associate extension 4-H youth gardening and plant science specialist.

Start-up and other community gardens less than three years old and in the development process will be given preference in funding of up to $5,000 per garden.

The funds can be used for such expenses as tool or other equipment purchases, water line or irrigation equipment and installation, soil improvement, creating raised beds, and to buy seeds.

Non-profit and not-for-profit organizations are eligible to apply, and community collaborations such as a cooperative agreement with a community garden and a local food pantry to provide a portion of the produce grown, are encouraged, Neier said.

To qualify for the funding, projects must be: 1) located within the state of Kansas; 2) on land with public access; 3) open to all (free of discrimination), and 4) demonstrate the value and public benefit of community gardens.

Grant recipients will be required to keep records and submit an annual report about their efforts to establish, maintain and sustain their community garden.

Grant applications are due by March 1 for this year’s funding. Applications and more information are available at kansascommunitygardens.org. Award announcements will be made April 1.

Best management practices for gardens can be found in the “Kansas Garden Guide” available at K-State Research and Extension offices and online.