Photo: Chase Family Services The Village of Chase is celebrating the grand opening of the Riverstone Community Food Forest in Wilson Park. The new garden area includes a variety of features designed to increase the community’s connection to nature, as well as promoting sustainability and education. Ashton Sweetnam, Chase and Area Family Services executive director, said in a statement the food forest will serve as a living classroom and an “edible pantry for all.
” “The Riverstone Community Food Forest is a testament to community collaboration and environmental stewardship,” Sweetnam said. “It includes an array of edible fruit trees and shrubs, creating a living pantry accessible to all.” “These plants not only provide nutritious food, but also serve as a living classroom for those interested in learning about local agriculture and sustainable practices.
” The garden also supports local biodiversity with food sources for pollinators, habitats for birds and insects, and natural play spaces for children. Visitors will soon be able to engage with signage explaining the importance of sustainable practices and the role of each plant and feature in the ecosystem. The food forest was designed by Sheleigh Garsen, a regenerative landscape designer who specializes in creating sustainable landscapes.
“She provided crucial project management during the early stages, ensuring that the vision for the food forest was meticulously planned and executed,” Sweetnam said. “.
