The Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) has awarded Laredo Community College an Urban Conservation Grant to set up a seasonal tunnel and community garden at the Lamar Bruni Vergara Environmental Science Center.
The grant covers the cost of three raised bed gardens under the cover of a 14-foot by 48-foot arched tunnel, according to Tom Miller, director of the LBVESC. The vented tunnel will provide a contained, controlled environment for the vegetable gardens students will tend and harvest.
Miller anticipates having the beds ready for a fall planting. He said the object of student participation is for them to learn the processes entailed in getting food to the market, from the soil to the dinner table. “When we harvest, they experience a fresh taste they have never before had,” he said.
The spring/summer gardens at the LBVESC are currently harvesting and offering to the public green beans, tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, and chiles. For information on what is available, call the center at (956) 764-5701.
MONARCH BUTTERFLY GARDEN GRANT
An additional grant, a Monarch Butterfly Garden Grant, will have LCC working closely with LEAPS (Leadership Excellence Academic Preparation) students and other student organizations to start the project. LCC is in the Monarch’s flight path during their spring and fall migrations.
The NRCS provides America’s farmers and ranchers with financial and technical assistance for conservation, the environment, and agricultural operations.
Dr. Nora Garza, LCC’s vice president for resource development, said the garden will provide students “an exciting opportunity to work with our beautiful soil and resources found at our Fort McIntosh Campus.”
