Lawrence, Kan.,is filled with many things to do and places to visit that the city provides for the community, but the city also offers more than just attractions, it provides spaces where neighbors can grow, learn, and connect. Located on 830 Garfield St., one such space is the Lawrence Community Orchard.
According to the Sunrise Project, the orchard project was founded in 2012 by the Lawrence Fruit Tree Project (LFTP), which was founded in 2008. It was created with the help of the City of Lawrence Common Ground Program, which leases city land for community agriculture. The Fruit Tree Project was created as a community solution to address food insecurity and to educate while helping and inspire the community to garden.
The orchard is home to over 100 plants and trees, representing approximately 30 species located east of Lawrence, near Burroughs Creek. The orchard contains various labeled fruits and vegetables that anyone can discover and pick for free. The garden is open to everyone, from dawn to dusk every day.
The orchard continues to thrive thanks to members of the Lawrence community who come together for monthly cleanups that anyone can join. During these events, neighbors work side by side to maintain the garden, ensuring it stays healthy and well cared for while fostering a sense of partnership and connection.
For more information about the garden, volunteer schedule or to stay up to date with upcoming events, visit the Sunrise Project website at sunrise projects.org or emaillawrencefruittreeproject@gmail.com.
Sunrise Project. (n.d.). Lawrence Fruit Tree Project. https://www.sunriseprojectks.org/lftp
