City eyes agreement on Catalyst Garden

The Shelton City Council on Jan. 7 gave preliminary agreement to a revised agreement with the WSU Cooperative Extension of Mason County on its Catalyst Garden.

No one from the public or council commented on the proposal. The council can make the move official at its meeting at 6 p.m. Tuesday in the Shelton Civic Center.

In its report, the city states that the revised agreement "is to clearly state the responsibilities of both parties regarding use of the property and operations."

The proposed agreement would stay in effect "until terminated by either party."

Jordanne Krumpols - the city's director of parks, recreation and facilities - told the council the garden at 909 S. 8th St. has hosted the WSU Cooperative Extension of Mason County demonstration and food bank gardens since 2010.

The proposed agreement states that WSU Extension will pay for utilities such as water and electricity, and maintaining current and new structures, garden beds, irrigation and volunteers. The city would oversee general maintenance outside the Demonstration Garden, including mowing and weed eating, and also oversee the portatable toilet on site.

In the proposed agreement, the city states that WSU's education mission at the garden is intended to demonstrate environmentally sound gardening techniques based on WSU research; provide hands-on experience for WSU Master Gardener volunteers; educate the public, including youths, in science-based horticulture and related topics; and provide a focal point for public use and enjoyment of the city's facility.

WSU Master Gardeners hosts monthly workshops during the growing season.

Everyone is welcome to join work parties conducted from 9 a.m. to noon Tuesdays and Saturdays April through October. For more information, contact Master Gardener/Small Farms Coordinator Tessa Halloran at 360-9670 Ext. 682 or [email protected].

Community garden beds are available. Applications are at extension.wsu.edu/mason/master-gardener.