BROOKINGS (10-13-26) — The Brookings Sustainability Council invites the public to an end-of-season open house at the Brookings Community Food Forest on Sunday, Oct. 18, from 4 to 6 p.m.
The open house will provide an opportunity for people to explore the food forest, learn about its development over the past two years, and hear about plans for its future. A ribbon cutting for the food forest took place in June.
“The Brookings Community Food Forest is a space where people can gather, enjoy nature, harvest produce, participate in volunteer days and educational workshops, and grow community,” said Robin Buterbaugh, a member of the Brookings Sustainability Council.
A food forest is a sustainable growing system designed to mimic the layers and diversity of a natural forest. By incorporating a variety of edible plants, trees, shrubs, and other vegetation, a food forest can provide food, support biodiversity, and create a resilient community green space. The Brookings Community Food Forest is a collaborative project between the city’s Sustainability Council and Parks, Recreation and Forestry Department. Buterbaugh said people from both groups look forward to sharing the progress made at the food forest and highlighting future opportunities for community involvement.
The food forest is located near the Douglas Chittick Community Gardens at the northeast corner of the Medary Avenue and U.S. Highway 14 Bypass intersection. To access the food forest, guests should enter from the Highway 14 Bypass to the south of the Community Gardens.
— From the City of Brookings
