Community Orchards

In recent years, there has been increased attention given to food security, food deserts, and edible landscapes. Prior to the Urban Forest Project, Creston Neighborhood Association established several fruit tree orchards on the northeast side of town. Since then, Friends of Grand Rapids Parks has worked with other community groups to expand food-tree availability throughout Grand Rapids.

We can work directly with neighborhood organizations to provide tools, leverage funds, recruit volunteers, and education to install and maintain community orchards. We have helped other groups determine planting locations, procure fruit trees, and provide training on fruit tree maintenance and management.

Currently, Friends of Grand Rapids Parks' Community Orchard program is tied to our mini-grant program. If you are interested in establishing or caring for an orchard on publicly accessible property, please consider submitting a mini-grant application.

PROPER FRUIT TREE MAINTENANCE TECHNIQUES