Public Health works to create community garden in Olin

Board of Supervisors
By: 
Kim Brooks
Express Editor

     A couple of years ago, Jones County Public Health, in partnership with ECICOG, submitted a grant application to the Iowa Department of Health & Human Services. This grant was geared toward the state’s 5-2-1-0 Healthy Choices Count! program.

   Both Olin and Anamosa were awarded the first-year $30,000 grant to help promote healthy habits for kids in K-12 schools.

   During the April 11 Jones County Supervisor meeting, Public Health Director Jess Wiedenhoff provided an update on the 5-2-1-0 project soon to kick off in Olin.

   “Three years ago, we started this conversation,” Wiedenhoff prefaced as to when the program began.

   The project in Olin will consist of a community garden: 10 raised garden beds near Olin Elementary to provide more access to fresh food. Wiedenhoff said there will also be a garden plot for vegetables and a butterfly garden.

   Right now, Public Health is collecting donations toward the project, both monetary and materials. The big build day is set for Friday, May 12. (By visiting www.jonescountyiowa.gov/public_health/5210_projects/, you can scan the QR code to donate and/or to volunteer.)

   “We’re getting donations and recruiting volunteers,” said Wiedenhoff. “Some great donations have come in already. Our biggest need is lumber and soil.”

   The Olin City Council donated $500 toward the project. St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church in Olin also donated $150.

   Wiedenhoff said the Jones County Young Professionals are also going to be assisting by clearing the site and doing some prep work before the 12th.

   The supervisors asked just how much soil/dirt is needed. Wiedenhoff said 960 cubic feet (36 cubic yards).

   “We’ll be doing flower pots as well as mixed flowers and herbs,” she added.

   The gardens will be available to all residents of the Olin community, providing free fresh produce. The Olin school will also incorporate the project into their curriculum.

   “Eventually, we’ll put in an ADA sidewalk,” offered Wiedenhoff. “This is something the community asked for; they’re excited.”

   Supervisor John Schlarmann asked about the care and maintenance of the gardens.

   Wiedenhoff said it’ll be a combination of school kids, school staff, and eventually a community group.

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