Saturday, April 2, 2022 - The Sallisaw FFA has received “The Living to Serve” grant from the National FFA organization to build a community garden. The grant was for $1200.00, and the group has plans to apply for a larger grant once it becomes available in the fall.
Ag and FFA advisor for Sallisaw Schools, Stephen Matthews said, "We are starting off small with a community garden with the hopes that we can grow it into something much bigger. Right now, we are looking at constructing raised beds and are looking for a tiller to assist with the project."
Additionally, students have been putting in a lot of their time into the school’s existing greenhouse. The greenhouse has been on campus for close to 30 years, but this is the first time it has been operational in over 20 years.
Matthews said, "Right now, we have around 1500 tomato plants, over 100 hanging baskets of marigolds, and other assortments of flowers. The greenhouse will soon undergo some much-needed renovations. These renovations include self-controlled fans, heaters, and watering systems."
The program will be hosting a plant sale at the school the second week of April. This will give the public the opportunity to come out and purchase plants and flowers while supporting a great cause.
"The students have been very diligent in caring for the plants and flowers. I love that they are getting the opportunity to learn in a different environment. Some students learn best by doing and getting their hands dirty," Matthews said.
Check out the Sallisaw FFA's Facebook page to keep up with the progress on the community gardens, greenhouse, and sale dates.
Lindsie Dyer, Staff Writer
For more news stories stay tuned to The MIX 105.1 or visit www.kxmx.com
