Food Forest Project Description

The future of Providence Christian Montessori includes a dynamic and interactive Food Forest project, thoughtfully designed to connect the community with nature. This space—crafted by Charles Lawson of DeWitt Permaculture—will transform a 0.3-acre area into a sustainable, low-maintenance haven that nurtures both the environment and our students.

Key Features and Goals

• Visual and Sound Barrier: Establishing a protective barrier along the fence and highway using dense plantings and innovative design to reduce noise pollution and enhance privacy.
• Perennials: Focusing on low-maintenance perennial plants to ensure sustainable growth and minimal upkeep, while retaining the vitality of the space.
• Food Forest Feel: Creating a diverse ecosystem of edible and ornamental plants that mimic the layers of a natural forest, promoting biodiversity and education.
• Nook Design: Incorporating cozy nooks throughout the forest, where visitors can engage in themed activities such as storytelling, meditation, or small-group learning.
• Erosion Control: Implementing strategies to address the ridge-type slope and erosion along the south-facing terrain, ensuring stability and long-term viability.
• Annual Vegetables: Including a select number of high-value annual vegetables while prioritizing the forest’s perennial framework.
• Interactive Space: Designing the forest to invite exploration and interaction with plants, creating opportunities for hands-on learning and environmental stewardship.

The forest will occupy a fenced-in space bordered by a parking lot to the southwest. With its ridge-like slope running east-west and a south-facing incline, thoughtful planning will ensure erosion control while maximizing plant growth and accessibility. The combination of visually appealing barriers, functional design, and thematic nooks will create an enriching environment that feels both intimate and expansive.

The garden and food forest at Providence exists to educate and cultivate community, sustainability and nourishment by providing fresh, locally grown food while equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills to address food insecurity.

The hands-on, sensory engagement will teach life skills, independence, stewardship, responsibility, and entrepreneurship. As the children nurture the garden and help it grown, the garden in turn will nurture their growth, curiosity, knowledge of nature, and connection to the environment.