On October 9th, our two SAFE interns had the opportunity to volunteer at Mack Park Farm, preparing the field for the first frost.
By Mia Amaral
This volunteer event, facilitated by Salem State University, had students harvesting fresh produce, tilling, placing compost, and winterizing the farm’s irrigation system.
Mack Park Farm enhances local and regional food security by providing the Salem community with healthy, locally grown food through urban farming. The City of Salem contracts with local farmers who, with the help of community volunteers, grow thousands of pounds of produce each season that is provided to the Salem community for free at biweekly farmers’ markets at the farm.
Students participated in hands-on work, rotating between multiple jobs throughout the farm. While some picked produce, other students deconstructed the farm’s irrigation system so the soils beneath could be tilled. After tilling was completed, students then placed compost and straw across the turned-over soil.
This environment fostered collaboration among the students, all working together towards the same goal. With many hands working together, it highlighted the importance of building community and the laborious work that is required in the upkeep of Mack Park farm.
Our SAFE interns are incredibly grateful to have worked with the Mack Park staff and to have collaborated with fellow Salem State University students.
Mia Amaral is SAFE’s Programs Intern.