Franklin’s Corner Community Garden opens May 5

Franklin’s Corner Community Garden in northeast Bend will open for the season on Saturday, May 5. Signups for gardeners begin at 9:30 a.m. at the garden, located on Franklin Avenue and Ninth Street. The work party begins at 10 a.m. and lasts until 1 p.m.

Returning gardeners who met all commitments and agreements last season have the first option to rent the same plot again this year. Gardeners on an existing wait list will also have an option to select a plot, and then remaining plots will go to interested parties on site on waiting to sign up on May 5. Gardeners who do not receive a plot will be kept on a waiting list and notified if openings occur.

Before signing up, please read the gardener’s agreement at www.franklinscorner.org . Gardeners are expected to commit to being present on all work party dates shown below. Each gardener plays a role in maintaining the garden campus.

Work party dates:

· May 5, 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., opening day registration, introductory meeting and work party

· July 21, 9 a.m. to noon, work party

· September 15, 9 a.m. to noon, work party

· November 17, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., end-of-season work party

Seasonal fees for the plots are $25 (for 10-foot by 10-foot plot) or $15 (for 10-foot by 3-foot) for one of four accessible beds for those with limited mobility or disabilities. Payment is due at the May 5 opening day registration and can be made via cash or checks made out to the City of Bend. ​Plot fees offset the cost of irrigation on the site.

Individuals can sponsor a family by paying the seasonal fees for those who may not otherwise have the ability or means. Sponsorships can be paid at the May 5 registration or by contacting Cheryl Howard, Volunteer Coordinator, 541-388-5579, choward@bendoregon.gov .

“This community garden is maintained entirely by volunteers,” said Howard. “Help us as we teach folks how to plant and maintain a garden. Share some starts, pull some weeds, be a part of this community effort.”

The garden is on city-owned land and was developed by the city’s Volunteer Program.