Earth Day 2012 community gardening and more! - by Aria Bilal

Earth Day came early for those who were involved in the SCA and Massabesic Audubon's Earth Day Festival this past Saturday. While families were enjoying activities and presentations, the high school students decided that providing service is how they would recognize such a meaningful day. As children were running around in a recycle relay race facilitated by SCA NH Corps members, SCA Manchester was getting things done in the garden.
The Massabesic Audubon houses a 4-H community garden which in past years has produced over 6,000 pounds of organic produce that is donated to the New Hampshire Food Bank. It's more than just a garden that yields produce; it's also an outdoor classroom for youth and families alike.

The service day began with some energizing group games and a revitalizing crew stretch circle before going to work in the garden. We prepped the soil by weeding and tilling, turned the compost for distribution, and began the pizza garden by planting some garlic and onion.

As most of you know, this program doesn't just focus on the environment, but more broadly emphasizes leadership development for students. Two of our second year members, Zach Dumont and Weimin Tan, spoke on behalf the program in a presentation to the public which they created.
The Earth Day Festival was a magic day and we'll be continually spreading environmental awareness and engaging youth in stewardship opportunities for many Earth Day's to come.

check out more photos at www.manchesterearthday.com