First year participant, Debbie Cook getting her fertilizer loaded.

First year participant, Debbie Cook getting her fertilizer loaded.

Welcome new members Kathy and Bobby Adams.

Welcome new members Kathy and Bobby Adams.

The Community Center's new truck make logistics like a pallet of fertilizer much easier to handle. Thanks again LKLP!

The Community Center’s new truck make logistics like a pallet of fertilizer much easier to handle. Thanks again LKLP!

Grow Appalachia participants met early on Saturday, April 13th to plan for gardens and gather garden supplies. As growing our community is a definite goal for our program we practice the mountain tradition of offering food and fellowship. Participants arrived to breakfast casserole coming out of the oven and fresh fruit. Many of the participants have willingly taken on the roles of helping things go smoothly. I can always count on Carol to make the best coffee, others pitch in with organizing supplies or setting up tables/chairs. Members are taking ownership of the group and becoming actively involved. A few of the members have taken the responsibility to call and remind participants of upcoming activities. Members are dedicated to making this a success not only for themselves but in helping others. As members arrive time is made for socializing and sharing their own garden progress. David Fisher, our new Field Representative was introduced to the group and connections were made to schedule tilling. Dave is already busy in the garden and tilling many gardens each day the weather cooperates. David is going to be a wonderful asset to the program and is generously giving of his time and garden experience. Participants are bonding quickly with David and relying on him for not only tilling but guidance. Progress with the Grow Appalachia program was shared with participants, upcoming opportunities and participant responsibilities reviewed. The proper use of fertilize and amount needed was discussed and for those participants with soil samples complete were given fertilize. In addition to fertilize a “Cash for Crops” certificate was distributed to participants. The certificate allows participants to purchase plants or garden supplies for their own gardens, getting exactly what they need/want at local gardening supply stores. The morning was exciting with a full house and folks eager to get started in their own gardens.