The Colonial SWCD has partnered with the Pathways program at Warhill High School to develop a unique, student-driven urban agriculture project on the high school campus. Almost 80 Pathways students have worked together, with the help of teachers and community volunteers, to develop and implement several projects within a former garden space. These projects include creating a crop plan, building wildlife-resistant fencing, and developing educational opportunities for garden visitors.
Colonial SWCD has and will continue to contribute to this project via technical and educational assistance. Williamsburg Director Charlie Morse and Urban Ag Education Specialist Robyn Goad are mentors for this project. As this project gains success, CSWCD hopes to expand similar opportunities for other District schools.
Another important partner in this project is Williamsburg Community Growers (WCG), a local nonprofit dedicated to education citizens about the value of producing and consuming healthy, locally-grown produce. WCG operates an experimental urban farm beneath a Dominion powerline next to Warhill, and hosts Pathways students weekly. At the WCG farm, students learn about preparing the garden for planting, proper planting methods, weeding and upkeep needs, and harvesting what's grown. Click here to check out the WCG website.
