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Chester County Press

A garden grows in Oxford

05/01/2015 01:10PM ● By Steven Hoffman

An effort is underway to start a community garden in Oxford.

Levi Villagomez, Jr. started growing tomatoes and other vegetables in his personal indoor garden in January, and thought it would be a good idea if there was a community garden for Oxford residents.

“Everybody needs food,” he explained.

He took the idea of starting a community garden to Oxford Borough Manager Betsy Brantner, who supported the idea. She was even able to come up with a good location: a piece of property at the corner of 8th and Broad that is owned by the borough. The property gets a lot of water, so potential

uses are limited, but would be suitable for raised garden beds.

Brantner talked about why she likes the idea of the community garden.

“I think it would take an area that is an eyesore and turn it into a beautiful spot,” said Brantner. “It would be both a community garden and a memorial garden, where those that have lost loved ones could plant a tree or other vegetation in honor of a loved one.

“The community garden would be a wonderful way for borough residents that do not have property to plant gardens and enjoy the outdoors, or it might enable financially challenged residents an opportunity to grow some of their own food.”

Villagomez is in the process of working out the details to get the garden started. He is looking for anyone who would like to plant crops in the community garden, as well as anyone who could help get the project underway, including those who can donate supplies. He can be contacted at [email protected].