Transition Town Tramore hosted the inaugural meeting of the Tramore Food Growers Group in the Library in Tramore on the evening of the 1st April. The attendance, which overflowed the room, was an indication of the interest in this topic, and consisted of absolute beginners and more experienced gardeners.
With its emphasis on reducing our carbon footprint, sustainable food production, revitalizing the community spirit and re-establishing our links with the land and what we can grow in whatever bit of soil is available to us, a local food producers’ group reflects a key aspect of the transition philosophy. For some it might be cultivating an acre or two, for others an urban or suburban back garden, and for other still just growing in pots or window boxes.
Michael Kelly, founder of the Waterford Food Producers’ Network, was the guest speaker and spoke of how they got started. He described the advantages of having food in your own back garden, and the difference in taste and nutrition as well as price. His enthusiasm was contagious and inspired many of those present to take up the trowel. His mention of the revival of the old Irish concept of the ‘Meitheal’ was most interesting.
Those present were asked to identify the topics they would like to have addressed at future meetings. Among the items mentioned were how to get started, raised beds, composting, poly-tunnels, planting out seedlings, weed-control, identifying soil types and low maintenance fruit and vegetables. There was also the suggestion of getting something going to involve children.
The next meeting will be held on the first Wednesday in May. It will be an occasion to swap, barter, donate or receive surplus seedlings and plants. There will also be a demonstration of seedling transplanting.
Waterford Food Producers Network is at www.wfpn.net.