Grown in Westhampton has been providing free educational programming to the public for more than 10 years. It is a social organization where people from all over Western Massachusetts gather, share information, and build strong bonds of friendship all while learning new life skills. A core group of dedicated volunteers line up speakers and organize special events that typically take place at the Westhampton Public Library. The group has covered many topics including edible landscaping, foraging wild edibles, vegetable and flower gardening, growing mushrooms on logs and even growing energy from the sun, just to name a few of their many programs. Agriculture and gardening have always been their core focus. The group also enjoys showcasing the local food economy as a way to encourage buying local. Businesses like Bridgmont Farm, Intervale Farm, the Mayval Creamery, Mineral Hills Winery, Mycoterra Mushroom Farm and Outlook Farm have all been featured by the group.
Even though their Spring programs have been canceled, due to the current health crisis, the group is still optimistic. Online talks and movies have been showcased on the group’s Facebook page. It may not be the same as meeting in person, but for now, it is the best option.
An ironic twist, one of the last meetings held by the group was on the Victory Garden. The emphasis at the meeting was that there has never been a better time to focus on growing your own food. Members of the group are doing just that and they are encouraging all families to do the same. Now is the perfect time to spend some time in nature. Parents can teach the next generation of gardeners just how much fun it is to dig in the dirt and grow your own nutritious food. If you can poke a seed in the ground, you can grow something delicious.
Before long, the seeds we plant now will have grown up and provided a spectacular bounty and if we are lucky, at that time, we’ll be able to once again gather and share in our growing success. If you are interested in finding out more about Grown in Westhampton, you can find them on Facebook or send them an email at growninwesthampton@gmail.com and request to be added to their mailing list so you can be notified about upcoming events.
