We want to build a low garden fence to transition the railroad corridor located on Decatur Street into our Carnes Butterfly Garden.
Leader
Vincent Sawyer
Location
Decatur Street Memphis, TN 38105
We want to add a low garden fence to our existing garden at the Decatur end of the Carnes Butterfly Trail. We call this abandoned railroad corridor that runs north of and parellel to J.W. Williams Lane a butterfly trail because we have planted numerous native trees along the corridor that are host and nectar plants for butterflies.
So far we have helped to convert abondoned lots into four gardens in the area: Carnes Garden; Carnes Garden East; Decatur Street Tree Garden; and Larrivee's Woods. Volunteers have planted butterfly host and nectar plants in addition to helping build raised beds for growing vegetables.
Last fall, Eagle Scout Troops built two raised beds at the Decatur end of the railroad corridor/butterfly trail, filled them with good soil, and planted turnip greens, and spinach. As a celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day this year, volunteers added native trees. Neighbor, James Alsobrook recently planted zinnias and okra in the raised beds.
We will first request a date and time for volunteers to assist in building the fence. One of the volunteers will have experience in setting fence posts to serve as team leader to the other volunteers. Second, we will purchase the materials listed in the budget. Third, we will schedule a time to rent tools from the tool bank without charge. Lastly, we will meet at the schedule time and build the fence.
We want to add the low garden fence because it is the next step in the transformation of this formerly abandoned ground into a beloved garden in the Carnes Community. A low post and rail fence like we have planned is an important element in recaiming this property on behalf of the people who lve in the neighborhood.
We have built similar fences at the front of Carnes Garden East and Decatur Street Tree Garden. Without a doubt they underscore the message that a previously thrown away as worthless property has been resurrected as a beautiful, productive garden and a source of pride for those who live nearby.
Relationship to "New Century of Soul" program goals
Transforming vacant and blighted lots into beautiful gardens, which are a source of inspiration and pride, is a service to the citizens and neighborhood near Carnes School.
Neighbor James Alsobrook works on these gardens every day putting in plants, keeping them watered and free of weeds. He is a natural teacher and loves sharing his knowledge with neighbors and friends who often come by to visit the garden.