Ryan Street Community Gardens Shares Annual Update Since Coming Under Ownership of Hancock

The Ryan Street community gardens provided Hancock City Council with a small presentation now that the property is owned by the city. Ryan Street Community Gardens president Mandy Lounibos shared that since the city now owns the property, she plans to provide future annual updates to the city. The Ryan Street community gardens rent out 19 planters by the square foot to city residents. There is a waiting list for rentals, however, Lounibos adds, the garden’s waiting list does move quickly.

“So our members, along with making their annual plot fee, they agree to volunteer for eight hours in a season. This helps us care for and manage the property. And in return, we provide them with all of the tools you’ll need. Toolshed, water, seeds. And probably the most important we provide support.” – Mandy Laounibos, President, Ryan Street Community Garden Board of Directors

Community gardens offer a variety of benefits to the community. Those who use community gardens tend to have healthier diets, participate in physical labor, and socialize with other residents. The Ryan Street gardens are completely volunteer-run. Lounibos says that the gardens are great for people who may not know much about gardening. But have a desire to learn.

“I didn’t know anything when I started gardening there. And now I run the place. But the good news is we have a lot of support, so if you ever have any questions you can always find someone. So we have had all of the plots rented since 2010. And we have high demand so we have a  waitlist. And we did expand as you can see in the picture. we started with just the plots on the right. And we added two additional beds. Which gave us eight more plots.” – Mandy Laounibos, President, Ryan Street Community Garden Board of Directors

Residents interested in joining the gardens but are curious about rental prices, equipment, and educational resources should contact Mandy Lounibos with the Ryan Street Community Gardens. This is the day that those hoping to have space in the gardens for the coming growing season should reach out to the group before March to join the waiting list. Find more information here.