The Howland Township Trustees have announced a new program available to township residents.
The program, a community garden project, consists of five garden plots that are available to township residents for planting vegetable or flower gardens for personal use or sharing with others. Organizations looking to plant items for local food banks are also welcome.
The gardens will be located on the Howland-Sloas Nature Preserve at 3938 N. River Road.
The 120 acres was purchased in 2002 by the township with funds made available from a grant through Clean Ohio in order to preserve an open space within the community. According to township trustee Rick Clark, community gardens contribute to the preservation, provides access and creates a sustainable use for the area.
''Community gardening strengthens community bonds, provided food and creates recreational and therapeutic opportunities for a community,'' Clark said in a recent press release.
Anyone interested in learning more about the community gardens or in securing a garden plot is invited to attend a public meeting at 33:30 p.m. April 21 at the township administration building. For more information, call the township administrator at 330-856-2340 or e-mail darlenestgeorge@ twp.howland.oh.us.