Guess who is up to their elbows in dirt? Girl Scouts, that’s who! -By Guest Blogger, Patte Conway

About 105 Daisy to Senior Girl Scouts are volunteering their time throughout the summer and into the fall at The Farm in Oyster Bay. They are helping plant seeds and plants, weed, stake up tomatoes, harvest the produce, and anything else that needs to be done! They are learning what it takes to maintain a tremendous Community Organic Garden! In the Girl Scout tradition, we will be donating our bounty to those in need, tasting some new veggies, and feeding the local rabbits.

On May 15, 2010 we had “Dig It Day”, our kick off event, where the girls & leaders got a tour, heard what was expected, and planted some perennials, potatoes, and bush beans. As one parent said, “Where else but Girl Scouts can a girl get this experience?” After a morning spent in the garden, everyone enjoyed the beautiful day with a picnic lunch.

Since then Troops have been tending to the garden on their designated weeks at The Farm. Under the direction of 5th generation caretaker, Amanda Roberts, everyone is learning about what it takes to grow vegetables at this wonderful garden site. Amanda even taught the girls about a Native American method of planting called The Three Sisters.

Besides gardening, we are giving our girls and leaders a place to relax. I have heard more than one person say they feel like they are in another world! A world where the hubbub of everyday life seems to disappear the moment they enter the garden.

GSNC is planning an old fashion picnic to reward all who tend the garden, on Monday July 26, 2010. We are also ending the growing season with a Harvest Day, where the Troops will help clean up the garden and enjoy some food prepared from their own hard work. What better way to see how our food goes from seed to table!