Exploring a Sustainable Future: MLT Community Foundation and City Team Up for Exciting Food Forest Initiative | MLTnews.com

The Mountlake Terrace Community Foundation (MLTCF) is teaming up with the City of Mountlake Terrace to create a Community Food Forest at Ballinger Park. This effort builds on the 2015 Ballinger Park Master Plan, which originally included plans for an orchard.

So, what exactly is a food forest? It’s a sustainable planting system that mimics natural forests and focuses on food-producing plants. The Food Forest at Ballinger, or FFAB, aims to provide free harvesting opportunities and hands-on learning about sustainable growing practices.

If you want to learn more, mark your calendar for the City Council meeting on December 4 at 7 p.m. You can attend in person or join virtually. The Foundation will present its vision for the food forest and update everyone on the new Ballinger Organic Garden.

Interested in getting involved? Attend the volunteer meeting on December 8 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Mountlake Terrace Library. This is a chance for community members to share ideas about learning opportunities, fundraising, and events for the food forest. Snacks and drinks will be available!

As a bonus, the MLTCF has made significant strides since it started in 2017, providing nearly $50,000 in community grants and organizing local events.

For further details about the Food Forest at Ballinger or the MLTCF, you can email ffab@mltcf.org or check their Facebook page.

Creating a food forest is not just about planting trees. It involves bringing the community together, enhancing local biodiversity, and promoting sustainability. As more cities around the world adopt similar initiatives, it’s clear that the movement toward community-focused green spaces is gaining momentum. The participation of local volunteers can be invaluable in making these projects successful and enriching community life.

For information on successful examples of urban food forests, check out this insightful report from the American Community Gardening Association here.

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