Rain Can't Dampen Spirits At Community Garden Grand Opening

A group of about two-dozen gardeners and local officials shrugged off a brief, drenching rain shower Wednesday evening at the grand opening of the Haddon Township community garden.

The nearly one-acre plot behind the historic Champion Schoolhouse on Lynne Avenue near Collings Avenue was just a barren lot when the project broke ground in March. But greenery is abundant now, with stalks of plants shooting out of the ground and the ever-present rain of the last month ensuring the crops won't go thirsty.

The gardeners asked Haddon Township commissioners for $1,550 of the estimated $4,200 cost for materials needed to start the garden. The remainder of the costs were expected to be paid by grants, including $2,000 from Sustainable New Jersey and dues from gardeners.

Additional township costs included installing water service at the site and paying for water for the first two years. The gardening group projects it will be self-sustainable by its third year.