Cassville youth lend hands at Barry County Community Garden

Sixty-five second-grade students and their teachers from Cassville summer school visited the Barry County Community Garden for a morning of hands-on activities focused on helping their community, growing food, healthy eating and the role of pollinators. 

Garden Manager Melissa Hamilton led the visit, introducing students to the garden’s mission, while volunteers Rosario Keele and Skip Easter assisted with activities and exploration throughout the grounds.

Students toured the garden, examining vegetables, fruits, herbs and flowers while discovering how food is produced. Through interactive experiences, they explored the importance of bees, butterflies, and other pollinators and discussed the benefits of nutritious foods. 

During the visit, students smelled herbs and flowers, learned how herbs and flowers are used in cooking, and observed how they support pollinators. They also asked questions about planting, watering, harvesting, and caring for plants.

In a final presentation, they observed how seeds can look so different for every plant. Each student received flower and vegetable seeds to take home and plant.

“We are hoping to instill a passion for growing food and helping neighbors in the next generation,” Hamilton said. “Experiences like this give children a chance to connect with where their food comes from and see how gardening can make a positive difference in their community.”

The visit reflects the Barry County Community Garden’s commitment to helping local youth understand food production, healthy eating and environmental stewardship, Hamilton added. 

“The garden continues to offer seasonal programs while serving as a source of fresh produce and resources for the community,” she said.

The Barry County Community Garden is located at 10160 Farm Road 2160 in Cassville, Missouri. Volunteers and donations are always welcome to support the garden’s mission. Donations may be made through the MU Extension office on the second floor of the Barry County Courthouse in Cassville. Please specify the donation is for the community garden. 

For more information, to volunteer, or to partner with the garden, people may contact Hamilton at 417-592-0432 or follow the Barry County Community Garden on Facebook.