Growing Community Through Gardens: Easton Rotary Learns About Easton Garden Works

At our recent Easton Rotary meeting, members had the opportunity to hear from Mark Reid, Head Farm and Garden Manager for Easton Garden Works, a program of the Greater Easton Development Partnership. Mark shared how Easton Garden Works is helping strengthen our community through urban gardening, food access, education, and volunteer engagement. Easton Garden Works operates six community gardens throughout the City of Easton, providing gardening space, resources, and educational opportunities for approximately 100 gardeners and their families. Their largest garden, located at Lower Hackett Park, produces an impressive 12,000 pounds of food annually while serving as a hub for community involvement and learning.

The organization also hosts monthly workshops covering topics such as gardening, cooking, herbalism, and crafts, while engaging volunteers through weekly work sessions. In addition, Easton Garden Works operates a chemical-free urban farm that donates more than 4,000 pounds of fresh produce each year to local food pantries and community markets. Beyond food production, these programs promote healthy living, sustainability, environmental stewardship, and stronger neighborhood connections. Mark also shared his passion for growing hot peppers and highlighted the annual hot pepper eating contest organized through the program.

Easton Rotary is proud to recognize organizations like Easton Garden Works that are making a meaningful difference in our community. We thank Mark Reid for sharing his insights and for the important work he and his team do to improve food security and create opportunities for residents to grow, learn, and connect