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CITY, ND – (NewsDakota.com) Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring has awarded grants totaling ,125 for 12 projects to develop orchards and plant trees in local communities. The largest of these was ,000 awarded to Hi-Line Prairie Gardens and Orchard in Valley City.
“The goals of the North Dakota Community Orchard Project are to increase the production of fruit and nut trees that grow in North Dakota, provide educational opportunities and foster community spirit by bringing people together to plant and tend these orchards,” said Goehring.
The Hi-Line Prairie Gardens and Orchard will convert approximately 4 acres of unused city property in northwest Valley City into an easily accessible outdoor recreation and educational area that is friendly to pollinator species.
The project includes planting 20 ornamental trees, 51 fruit and nut trees (apples, plums, cherries, etc.), 120 fruiting shrubs (juneberry, honeyberry, bush cherry, etc.), and approximately 15,000 square feet of native flowering plants. A gazebo, rain garden, water feature, bridge and walking paths are also part of the master plan.
The site is on the east and west side of 5th Avenue NE at 9th Street NE in Valley City, the main route to the landmark Hi-Line Bridge. Currently, grass covers the sloped west side while the east side contains a storm water retention pond. This project would present a more appealing view to both citizens and out of town visitors with colorful spring blooms, flowering plants from spring to fall, and dramatic fall foliage color. To promote enjoyment of the area, walking paths will be installed and efforts will be made to maximize handicap accessibility.
In addition to improving the attractiveness of the area, the Hi-Line Prairie Gardens and Orchard will provide an opportunity for community members to be outside. Volunteers will be needed to help construction and maintenance of the Garden/Orchard.
People will walk on garden paths enjoying and learning about native plant and grasses, pick fruit and berries, and learn about fruit trees that can thrive in our climate.
This project will also provide valuable habitat and education about pollinator species such as butterflies and bees that are crucial to the food supply but have been threatened by habitat loss and pesticide use. Native flowering plants support pollinators while requiring little water and no chemical use. Pollinators play a crucial role in flowering plant reproduction and in the production of most fruits and vegetables. Apples, tomatoes, berries, and much more would not be available without pollination.
The partners in this project are members of the Valley City State University Fisheries and Wildlife program, the City of Valley City and the Valley City Beautification Committee. The project leader is Dr. Casey Williams, Biology and Fisheries professor at VCSU. VCSU undergraduate students helped develop this project and will continue to play a large role in construction and maintenance of the Prairie Gardens. VCSU will be responsible for seeking additional funding for the project, marketing the garden/orchard to schools and the community, and providing educational content both for VCSU students and Valley City community members.
The Valley City Beautification Committee which includes 21 volunteer members will be led by Bobby Koepplin, the project leader for the orchard. In addition to tree planting and maintenance, the Committee will coordinate additional fundraising, provide in-kind labor, materials, and cash for planting, aid in marketing the orchard to schools and the community.
The City of Valley City has agreed to support this project by dedicating the land for the site, providing access to water, maintaining trash removal, mowing and supplying a power line to the gazebo.
Nearly $275,000 in grants has already been submitted for the estimated $377,000 project. The project is in need of private donations as this is not a tax -supported project. All contributions will be greatly appreciated. Tax-deductible donations can be sent to the Sheyenne Valley Community Foundation, 250 West Main Street, Valley City, ND 58072. Please write Hi-Line Prairie Gardens and Orchard in the memo line.
To volunteer, contact Madeline Luke at mzlnd@yahoo.com or call 701-845-5407.