In support of the Administrative Priority to Target Outreach and Expansion an Enabling Garden concept was established in Brazoria County. Gardening is known to be therapeutic for improving both physical and mental health. However, many of those who would benefit most from gardening are restricted by their disabilities or by their lack knowledge of alternative, enabling methods and tools. There are hundreds of individuals in Brazoria County with disabilities. Also, the aging of our population means that many avid gardeners will begin to experience limited mobility, strength and range of motion. To address this need, a Planning Group within the Brazoria County Master Gardeners Association was formed to develop plans and goals for an enabling garden at the Extension Education Center.
Four goals were identified for the enabling garden concept: 1) construct a model enabling garden with elements to include ADA approved paths, seating, garden beds and tools, propagation area and accessible composting area, 2) provide information on simplified gardening techniques that anyone can use, 3) construct a website where people can go to view the gardens and access information on how to construct beds, paths, ponds, etc.; where to obtain special tools, plant materials and other garden supplies; and resources for lesser-enabled individuals, 4) train volunteers to present the information to support organizations, assisted living communities, schools, and community officials. The ultimate goal for this project is to provide a model for other groups throughout Texas.
2009 was the year of construction and publicity. Drainage, wiring, sprinkler system and raised bed construction were completed. Blueprints for three enabling raised beds were developed and are available at the Extension Office for individuals and groups. The website, www.enablinggardens.com, is currently under construction and when completed will be a source of information to others. Articles on the various components of enabling gardens were prepared and have appeared in MSConnect, The Facts newspaper, and the Brazoria County Master Gardener newsletter. Master Gardener Jennifer Northrop has spoken about the gardens at two Multiple Sclerosis conventions and other Master Gardeners are being trained to present enabling garden information to other groups.
This program will continue to address its goals and reach out to disabled and limited mobility gardeners.
Content for this article was provided by Dale A. Fritz, Ph.D., District Extension Administrator-Texas AgriLife Extension Service.
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