Et cetera : Maple 6 Strengthening Iowa City’s Local Food System

By: Jessica Ray

From day one this project with Local Foods Connection was unlike any other from working on local farms to planting community gardens. Only five weeks into the project, Maple 6 is turning heads with the work these Corps Members have completed. To date NCCC members have completed an edible fruit forest at Wetherby Park, a local park, in Iowa City. In addition to planting a fruit forest Maple 6 members have finished planting tomatoes at a local farm in the area. Maple 6 most rewarding project is planting at the community garden at Wetherby Park.

Throughout these five weeks Corps Members have surveyed Iowa City residents and venders about their experience at the Farmer’s Market. Furthermore, Maple 6 members are learning different gardening techniques such as putting sheep manure on the tomatoes that will nourish and help the plants grow better. Another gardening technique the team is putting to practice at the community garden includes planting, putting down cardboard and then wood chips. This technique reduces weeds, prevents grass from growing and better for the environment because you do not have to tear up the entire ground to plant.

Kishori Mahulikar, a NCCC Member, is looking forward taking back the skills and gardening techniques back to my community. “We are making a tangible impact throughout community and gaining valuable knowledge that we are sure to use in our own communities,” said Mahulikar.

Maple 6 efforts are strengthening the local foods network and empowering farmers who live and work in the area.