Grants Awarded in 2012

Marion-Polk Food Share Community Orchard Initiative
Marion-Polk counties Food Share proposed to buy and plant fruit trees in nine community gardens in Marion county as part of a community orchard initiative.  Over time the fruit bounty will supplement the diets of families in low income areas around Salem and Keizer.  Food Share coordinators planned to engage neighborhood residents in the tree planting and on-going care to further education and community building.

Gresham Japanese Garden, Tsuru Island Renovation
In Gresham, the Sister City Association proposed to continue the restoration of the public Tsuru (Crane) Island Japanese garden.  This ¾ acre within Main City Park had deteriorated since its establishment in the 1970s and needs major replanting and renovation.   Initial clean up was completed and a partnership created with the Johnson Creek Watershed Council, the Corrections department, church and scout groups, and nurseries.  The curator of the Portland Japanese Garden would advise on design.         

Habitat Restoration Team Native Plant Garden
At PCC’s Sylvania campus a Habitat Restoration Team planned to create a display garden to promote the beauty and practicality of native plant species in landscaping.  The 4,800 sq. ft. site in the middle of the campus would be transformed with a wheelchair-accessible pathway and planting of 50+ carefully selected plant species.   The multiple goals of the project are to educate students and staff about native plants, combat existing soil erosion and rainwater runoff, and provide a link with an expansive natural areas project known as “The Interpretive Trail.”