New Community Garden in Rodanthe is Ready to Grow

Residents in the tri-villages just got a new plot of space to start their spring and summer gardening initiatives, thanks to a community garden project that was recently orchestrated by the Fair Haven United Methodist Church (UMC.)

The community garden is located in Rodanthe adjacent to the church, and the project originated when a member approached the Pastor of Fair Haven UMC, Tim Fitch. “David Smith had a vision about doing a community garden,” said Fitch. “He came to me with it, and I thought it was a great idea,”

From there, multiple community members pitched in to quickly move forward with the project, setting up five wooden garden boxes measuring roughly 16 feet long by 5 feet wide.

Kempsville Building Materials in Buxton donated wood for two of the boxes, while Earth Resources in Kitty Hawk donated soil and compost, which was delivered to the site by tractor, courtesy of Justin O’Neal. The actual building of the boxes was also comprised of donated time, thanks to community members and church members who wanted to lend a hand.

“A lot of members in the community really liked the idea and came to help,” said Fitch, “and we’re going to be open to everyone.”

Islanders who want to flex their green thumb muscles can sign up for one of the 10 available spaces by calling David Smith at 203-548-0549, or by contacting the Fair Haven UMC at https://www.facebook.com/pg/Fair-Haven-UMC-237704637113949/.

Fitch attests that folks don’t have to be a member of the Fair Haven UMC to join in, and everyone is welcome to grow a garden of their own.

In addition, gardeners who love to get their hands dirty and who want to share the fruits of their labor are also welcome to claim a space, as the ensuing veggies will be put to good use.

“Anyone who just wants to grow vegetables is welcome,” said Fitch. “They will be given to the church, and we will either give them out Sunday morning, or if the food pantry is in need, we will give it to [them.]”

With spring just around the corner, and the new community garden ready to grow, it’s a fine time for tri-village residents to enjoy their own patch of greenspace.

“This is going to be a really great way to say ‘come as you are, and let’s be a community with each other,’” said Fitch. “It’s a community garden, so everyone is welcome to add to it, and to be a part of it.”

“It’s all about coming together, growing, and sharing that space with our island community.”