Page 32 - Leisure Living

Community Garden
Continued from page 31
the local municipality becomes aware of them. Try to find out how the plot was used in the past, and check with those in the community about the condition of the land. You might also contact the community’s building department or the local EPA district office to inquire about testing the property’s soil.
Q: How should I manage the garden?
A: Some gardens operate as community endeav- ors, in which no one member has claim to any particular plot or plant, and all members are responsible for the whole garden. Others assign individual plots to specific members. Some gar- dens are open to the public, while others are “closed-gate” and open only to members. How your garden operates is up to you.
Before starting a garden, you should draft a model gardening agreement that each member must sign. The agreement should address the manner of the garden’s operation, pertinent rules and regulations (including rules required by local ordinance on plant and structure height, location, etc.), the election or appointment of officers who will lead the garden’s operations (e.g., a president and treasurer), assignment of a particular plot to each member (if applicable), indemnification of the landowner, and responsibility for supplies. It should also address the consequences of taking produce from another member without per- mission. Such an agreement will help members understand their role in the garden and will help resolve any disputes that may arise, which will allow the garden to operate efficiently.
Q: What should I know if I want to sell the products of my garden?
A: You are more likely to encounter issues if you sell your products by setting prices and making profit, as opposed to covering costs through donations. It would be wise to contact the local municipality to inquire about a license/permit before trying to sell your garden’s products on your own. You may also be able to sell your prod- ucts at a local farmers’ market, though you will likely have to pay a small fee to help cover the market’s costs.
Q: How will a garden benefit my community? A: Properly tended community gardens are easier on the eyes than unkempt vacant lots, and will provide air quality and health benefits to your community. In addition, studies have shown that the presence of community gardens helps to strengthen ties among the community, which, in turn, helps lower crime rates in their neighbor- hoods.
This “Law You Can Use” consumer information column was pro- vided by the Ohio State Bar Association. It was prepared by Cleveland attorney Justin D. Stevenson, Esq. Articles appearing in this column are intended to provide broad, general information about the law. Before applying this information to a specific legal problem, readers are urged to seek advice from an attorney.
2014 - 2015 Season
Saturday, May 9, 2015—7:30 PM
Pamela Rose and the
Wild Women of Song
Memorable jazz favorites in a close blend of vocal and instrumental harmonies
Sponsored by Frederick Agency and
Miller Ferries to Put-in-Bay and Middle Bass Island
NOTE-This concert will be performed at Firelands Church, 2626 E. Harbor Rd.
Saturday, June 20, 2015—7:30 PM
“A Spring into Summer Concert”
The Skip Turner Band-2 vocalists, trumpet plus 7 instruments offer high energy Jazz with a hint of soulful Gospel.
Tickets $15 at the door; students and children admitted free. All con- certs will be performed at Firelands Church, 2626 East Harbor Road. For information call 419-734-6211.
This Space Donated As A Community Service
By Leisure Living Magazine
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32 |LeisureLiving May 2015
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