In 2022, the Catalyst Park Food Bank Garden produced 2058 pounds of produce for the Saints’ Pantry Food Bank.
The Catalyst Park Demonstration Garden was created in 2009 as a collaboration between Shelton Kiwanis, WSU Mason County Master Gardeners, and the City of Shelton. Mary Ann Murray & B.J. Beatty, a former Master Gardener, donated the acre of land.
The brush-covered city lot has been transformed to contain 12,000 square feet of demonstration garden which includes a food bank and learning garden as well as 24 raised community garden beds available to community members as a part of a hands-on gardening education program.
The garden is managed and worked by Master Gardener volunteers. All improvements – the garden beds, greenhouse, sheds, irrigation system, and fencing – were completed by volunteers with funds raised in our community. Mark Ziegler, along with the City of Shelton Parks and Recreation, provided the gravel roadway and installed picnic table and a gate at one end. They also maintain brush and disposal, mow, and deliver mulch from city trimmings.
All operating costs: seeds, water, soil, mulches and tools are covered by the Master Gardener Foundation of Mason County fundraising activities in addition to donations from local clubs and individuals.
Master Gardeners work closely with Saints’ Pantry Food Bank employees to grow highly requested items. The food bank garden donates an average of 2,000 pounds of fresh, nutritious vegetables per year to help fight food insecurity and ensure that community members have access to fresh, nutritious produce.
For a small annual fee, community gardeners are provided all the supplies they need to get growing in addition to regular advice sessions with Master Gardeners. In keeping with the mission of the Master Gardener Program, there are also monthly educational workshops held in the garden for community gardeners that teach growing techniques and provide the opportunity to share experiences with each other.
We welcome you to visit! Contact our Program Coordinator if you are interested in visiting or volunteering.
Catalyst Park Community Garden
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