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than would be possible in just one yard. Dividing resources and combining growing space can save money and may increase yields. Chickens are allowed to roam through this planting during certain times of the year, adding nutrients to the soil, eating insects, scuffing the soil surface, and eating any food that has fallen to the ground. Twelve raised beds provide growing space for annual and perennial vegetables. I - Small patches of lawn remain throughout the neighborhood providing space for kids and pets to play near the food-producing areas. J – Beautiful heat-loving vines grow on south-facing arbors, producing food and shading buildings from the summer sun. K - Beehives provide pollinators for the neighborhood as well as plenty of honey. The residential setting offers excellent conditions for raising bees with ample sunlight and protection from wind.
The slightly sloped north-facing yard offers ample growing space for trellised dwarf fruit trees, a perennial polyculture, annual vegetable beds, and chickens.
Two neighbors share growing space between their houses and divide responsibilities maintaining the beds. Vertical space on exterior walls is used to grow vines, producing food and shading summer sun.
THE SHELBURNE FALLS FOOD SECURITY PLAN: PHASE ONE