Steering Committee Meeting Minutes (Draft)
August 22, 2012
Present: Glenn Herlihy, Jacqueline Cramer, Carissa Franks, Briar Bates, Christina Olson (scribe), Judi Johnson, Susanne Schneider (welcome Susanne!)
We are asking again for review and approval of prior SteerCo meeting minutes sent out by Peter and Jacqueline. Please let Glenn know and he will have Joel Lee post to the website. We need to keep current with these to let folks follow the progress of the project.
Mayor McGinn and Bernie Matsuno of DON are not able to attend Groundmaking.
As far as we know Ray Hoffman is still willing.
Volunteer group led by Joanna has made signs for future work parties.
Site Development committee, still in conversation with City. Uncertainty as to water provision. Former verbal agreement by Parks to DON is now in flux. Parks wants a way to meter the usage by Food Forest. The alternative is to tap into a main running along 15th Ave. S. To cost this option, a “water accessibility permit” process via SPU is needed. This will estimate the cost, location and method to access city water for the Food Forest, then that can be presented to Parks management for reconsideration of shared water from the system on the lid. Discussion shifted to considering temporary solutions including above ground tank with gravity flow hoses, refilled periodically with a water truck. Briar offered two 50 gallon plastic water containers from her business.
Moved on to discussion of permit process and planting. Should we attempt planting islands of trees on the lower section (west of 16th Ave) which would not conflict with work by the Conservation Corps and their machinery (timetable unknown, permit related)
Irrigation plan is being finalized by Harrison Design. Site committee met with them and made changes to the main pathway both upper and lower sections of the site.
Latest thought is that the project remains exempt from a permit, but there is a formal exemption process that must be followed. Department of Planning and Development (exemption grantor) is concerned about the steep slopes. Laura Raymond of DON will lead that process, but it needs plan submittal for review. No answer how long the process takes.
Caution urged with the thought of planting the lower area without approval in writing—we need to be clear if this IS or IS NOT allowed. We don’t want/need a Stop Work Order for the project.
Site was staked out two weeks ago, Laura advised leaving the stakes—but there has been recent mowing—are they still there?
Jacqueline will follow up with Laura on all the questions related to the site & permissions.
Material Storage: Some awkwardness over the pile of broken concrete that was not approved for storage at this time, or where it ended up. Talk of finalizing locations for organic materials (mulch, chips, and compost) and hardscape. NO MORE DUMPING. Clear with Glenn or Laura prior to leaving anything on site. Plans developing for fencing and getting thru the bollards by prior agreement.
Outreach. Phi has left city employment as the Outreach Service Provider specialist. His function may be taken on by Laura Raymond. Dire need for a meeting with Cheryl and others (OSP and Communications Committee) to hammer out a strategic plan for outreach to underserved communities and non-English speakers. We had some success with the Small and Simple grant, we need to build on those efforts.
Website: Joel Lee has agreed to continue with managing the website and posting new material to it. Go thru Glenn who will work with Joel. We need to post things to the calendar on the site, no mention of our outreach or meeting schedule. Need instructions on how to post our photos to an album Joel has created. Glenn with ask
Poster: Status unknown with the designers from Bellingham Glenn will make inquiries.
Outreach at Beacon Rocks 8/26: Judi is taking lead, has called some volunteers, and will call asking them to take a shift. Jacqueline brought supplies for making speedballs that will be the focus. Christina will help setup and bring tables and extra chairs.
Flyers Need quarter page flyers: Discussion of need for flyers to take to Tilth Harvest Festival (9/8) in Wallingford and other places. Carissa will draft one, Jackie will provide ideas/text. Judi offered that Costco has the cheapest printing. City may also provide some printing. Will they be in other languages? Judi Johnson will be working with Joanna to staff our display with volunteers.
Groundmaking Day (9/29) Discussion ensued as to what it might look like, what would be done. May need another meeting to flesh out. (9/12 mentioned) Glenn will contact Andrea.
DON Large Grant: Jackie reported we had confirmation that our application was received and in order to proceed. Part of the process is to make a presentation to a Citywide Review Team and a District Council Review Team. The presentation will be scored and this combined evaluation makes up 50% of our score for ranking projects for the DON Large Grant. Also in the mix are evaluation by the City Council and the Mayor.
Presentation Dates, Sept 13 and Sept 19. Details to follow. Seemed like Jackie and Glenn are taking the lead on this. Susanne will coordinate with Jackie to help with the presentations. One presentation is 15 minutes, the other 3-5 minutes. Table displays also. Sounds like the same process we did for the Parks Opportunity Fund a couple of years ago. Decision on the Large Grant—notification in January.
Building Committee Carissa has volunteered to work with Rob and others to pull together a meeting to discuss the “program” for our future building and associated structures. The program will be very specific, the desires and needs of the humans reflected in the design (function and form). Funding issues may result in this aspect of the Food Forest being staged to coincide with grant awards. This will need to be done regardless of who we select to help us design and build a gathering structure (if $$ is awarded or another grant comes thru). Carissa also mentioned her firm makes meeting space available, so perhaps that will work better than trying to find a suitable space on Beacon Hill. So far we have met with Steve Badanes of the UW School of Architecture Design/Build program and Pomegranate. Rob knows folks at the timber frame guild and has knowledge & building experience.. Rob and Carissa will work together to get this going. They will work to include the community in these pre-design discussions.
Organizational Retreat
Running out of time, but short discussion of need for a retreat to address critical organizational structure and operations. Jacqueline has submitted grant application to fund such, not heard back yet. Opinions offered as to a location, date, length of session, Facilitators working pro bono are available (are these the right ones?)
Next Meeting: Scheduled SteerCo Sept meeting is W Sept 26 at Amor Center. Glenn will consider if meeting sooner is needed to plan Groundmaking Day.
REPORT ON PERMACULTURE CONSULTANT SITE VISIT to BEACON FOOD FOREST May 11, 12, 2012
Mtg. on site with Permacultrue design consultants Josho Somine and Rick Alley with Landscape Architect Margaret Harrison community members of Friends of Beacon Food Forest site design committee: Glenn Herlihy, Julie Haack, Rob Mellinger, Morgan Wright, Jacqueline Cramer, Giovanni Dellino, Jeremy, Briar Bates, Johanna Wright
Soil samples and test pits were conducted. Meeting held to discuss features on site and possibilities. Direction was given to design grading features which will address water infiltration and movement on site.
The following Points were discussed:
· some curtain drains exist on site. The one on the upper bench may be altered by grading plan. We will employ their function when possible. Other swales will be added to move water to areas that need it.
· Water will be directed in a way to slow it down so that it may infiltrate, as well as allow it to move away from areas using a slope of 2-4%.
· Features that address water will be revealed in order to demonstrate a systemic approach to water on site.
· Drainage features will run alongside ADA path at 2% grade.
· By there nature as an impervious surface, paths will move water : design for water to sheet off of path to swales alongside. When volume is high, water will run along the paths: design drainage feature to receive a large dump of water where path turns or is cut. This is typically an arrangement of rocks semi subgrade (to avoid vandalism of them) with plenty of spaces between to accommodate water. Rick suggested a herringbone pattern for aesthetics.
· Cobble rock cuts will be made in the paths to allow spaces for water and to direct water.
· Water will be directed in a circular manner around the edible arboretum
· Grading documents from LARCH/Consultants will be specific for
o machinery work contracted (likely by Conservation Corps)
o community-led volunteer work parties using hand tools and smaller machinery like rototillers with attachments
· Soil tests results varied, showing a good background soil quality in each test pit. [more input from Josho here would be helpful]. Glenn has the samples. Results:
o edible arboretum = very rocky with chunks of fill matter mixed in (unknown history)
o community garden plots = quality soil profile with varied rock/gravel composition
o lower bench = heavy clay soils which hold water
· City-provided topo maps are inaccurate
Suggestions to address the various site conditions:
· EDIBLE ARBORETUM
o excavate large holes for each tree, filling with compost and good soil, plant tree within. AND for entire area, strike holes in the earth with pick axes in order to break up the hard pack of fill, then adding sheet mulch to regenerate the soil
o locate edible arboretum west of the slope to allow for circumnavigating day-lighted drainage swale; leave access to existing pathway up the slope; and to make use of better soil conditions.
o Plant hardy species in the area near the slope due to compacted soils. ex include : Ceanothus genus – a nitrogen-fixing, pollen-filled, evergreen, drought tolerant, attractive plant; Goumis.
· LOWER BENCH WITH HEAVY CLAY SOILS – this area will not be graded with machinery under contract with Seattle conservation corps summer of 2012, only the pathway which travels from bus stop to 16th Ave South.
o volunteer work parties to survey the site to mark contours, then design drainage swales to move water off the area at a 2% grade change. Use colored water in a clear hose (25’ long) as a tool
o move soil with a large tiller (BCS) with scraper blades to create an undulating surface: wet-loving species are planted in the low spots and plants with drier needs are planted atop raised areas.
o hugelculture is very useful in areas with heavy clay.
· COMMUNITY ALLOTMENT GARDEN AREA
o Terracing with materials which could include Juniper timbers – Laura Raymond has a lead on a good price (4”X4”X8’ – 90 @ $ __) :the committee needs to decide on materials and act; SDOT is a good source for broken concrete (Jackson St project ): Laura says community must make the request.
o use walls for thermal mass
o wind breaks needed
o compost system within this area could make use of slope and be pulled down for decomposing phases: use gravity to do the work. the three bins of a horizontal system would be changed to three sections on the hill side
· GENERAL SITE
o Design and plant hedgerows for windbreaks and visual appeal, planting more sensitive food crops in between = “alley crops”
o rain gardens a useful feature on site where water accumulates
o Visions for future water use on site: tap the water which runs in drain pipes adjacent to site – observe catch basins and research pipes for direct connections. With wise stewardship, convert rain gardens into ponds through an ‘establishment phase.’ Currently, we have no plans to create standing water on site.
o Accent wetlands.
o coir wattles can be use for a bioengineering approach for land contours: a zone 3 or 4 use. It may be possible to use them just above the wetland to terrace for blueberries.
o drainage features can be lined with eco products ( like woven coir, or burlap) instead of synthetic fabric, prior to lining with drain rock )
o key line plow not available yet, but can be used in future features, to open cracks in earth; possible to attach to lg rototiller.
WORK PARTY ITEMS:
stake and mark areas, build terraces and retaining walls, sheet mulch, plant, mark contours, grade lower bench, etc
Mtg. on site with Permacultrue design consultants Josho Somine and Rick Alley with Landscape Architect Margaret Harrison community members of Friends of Beacon Food Forest site design committee: Glenn Herlihy, Julie Haack, Rob Mellinger, Morgan Wright, Jacqueline Cramer, Giovanni Dellino, Jeremy, Briar Bates, Johanna Wright
Soil samples and test pits were conducted. Meeting held to discuss features on site and possibilities. Direction was given to design grading features which will address water infiltration and movement on site.
The following Points were discussed:
· some curtain drains exist on site. The one on the upper bench may be altered by grading plan. We will employ their function when possible. Other swales will be added to move water to areas that need it.
· Water will be directed in a way to slow it down so that it may infiltrate, as well as allow it to move away from areas using a slope of 2-4%.
· Features that address water will be revealed in order to demonstrate a systemic approach to water on site.
· Drainage features will run alongside ADA path at 2% grade.
· By there nature as an impervious surface, paths will move water : design for water to sheet off of path to swales alongside. When volume is high, water will run along the paths: design drainage feature to receive a large dump of water where path turns or is cut. This is typically an arrangement of rocks semi subgrade (to avoid vandalism of them) with plenty of spaces between to accommodate water. Rick suggested a herringbone pattern for aesthetics.
· Cobble rock cuts will be made in the paths to allow spaces for water and to direct water.
· Water will be directed in a circular manner around the edible arboretum
· Grading documents from LARCH/Consultants will be specific for
o machinery work contracted (likely by Conservation Corps)
o community-led volunteer work parties using hand tools and smaller machinery like rototillers with attachments
· Soil tests results varied, showing a good background soil quality in each test pit. [more input from Josho here would be helpful]. Glenn has the samples. Results:
o edible arboretum = very rocky with chunks of fill matter mixed in (unknown history)
o community garden plots = quality soil profile with varied rock/gravel composition
o lower bench = heavy clay soils which hold water
· City-provided topo maps are inaccurate
Suggestions to address the various site conditions:
· EDIBLE ARBORETUM
o excavate large holes for each tree, filling with compost and good soil, plant tree within. AND for entire area, strike holes in the earth with pick axes in order to break up the hard pack of fill, then adding sheet mulch to regenerate the soil
o locate edible arboretum west of the slope to allow for circumnavigating day-lighted drainage swale; leave access to existing pathway up the slope; and to make use of better soil conditions.
o Plant hardy species in the area near the slope due to compacted soils. ex include : Ceanothus genus – a nitrogen-fixing, pollen-filled, evergreen, drought tolerant, attractive plant; Goumis.
· LOWER BENCH WITH HEAVY CLAY SOILS – this area will not be graded with machinery under contract with Seattle conservation corps summer of 2012, only the pathway which travels from bus stop to 16th Ave South.
o volunteer work parties to survey the site to mark contours, then design drainage swales to move water off the area at a 2% grade change. Use colored water in a clear hose (25’ long) as a tool
o move soil with a large tiller (BCS) with scraper blades to create an undulating surface: wet-loving species are planted in the low spots and plants with drier needs are planted atop raised areas.
o hugelculture is very useful in areas with heavy clay.
· COMMUNITY ALLOTMENT GARDEN AREA
o Terracing with materials which could include Juniper timbers – Laura Raymond has a lead on a good price (4”X4”X8’ – 90 @ $ __) :the committee needs to decide on materials and act; SDOT is a good source for broken concrete (Jackson St project ): Laura says community must make the request.
o use walls for thermal mass
o wind breaks needed
o compost system within this area could make use of slope and be pulled down for decomposing phases: use gravity to do the work. the three bins of a horizontal system would be changed to three sections on the hill side
· GENERAL SITE
o Design and plant hedgerows for windbreaks and visual appeal, planting more sensitive food crops in between = “alley crops”
o rain gardens a useful feature on site where water accumulates
o Visions for future water use on site: tap the water which runs in drain pipes adjacent to site – observe catch basins and research pipes for direct connections. With wise stewardship, convert rain gardens into ponds through an ‘establishment phase.’ Currently, we have no plans to create standing water on site.
o Accent wetlands.
o coir wattles can be use for a bioengineering approach for land contours: a zone 3 or 4 use. It may be possible to use them just above the wetland to terrace for blueberries.
o drainage features can be lined with eco products ( like woven coir, or burlap) instead of synthetic fabric, prior to lining with drain rock )
o key line plow not available yet, but can be used in future features, to open cracks in earth; possible to attach to lg rototiller.
WORK PARTY ITEMS:
stake and mark areas, build terraces and retaining walls, sheet mulch, plant, mark contours, grade lower bench, etc
STEERCO MEETING MINUTES BEACON FOOD FOREST -
March 28, 2012
Attending; Bob Redmond, Briar Bates, Christina Olson, Giovanni Dellino, Julie Haack, Cheryl Wilder, Gloria Bradford, Pennie O’Grady, Diana Castillo, Glenn Herlihy, Peter Laing, Jacqueline Cramer
Agenda approved; meeting facilitated by bob Redmond
Minutes from March 1 meeting will be sent via email and approved at next meeting.
Agreed : future meeting minutes be 1st sent out draft via email, then, 2nd propose changes at following meeting and approved.
Updates
· Outreach – language we use needs to be inclusive and offer suggestions to people why/how this project will serve them and the community. Phrases for multi-cultural messaging: healthy food, garden plots in your neighborhood, healthy communities. Consider meeting times – include Saturday meetings. We need to take the initiative. questions exist on how we communicate with OSP’s: directly or through Phi at DON?
· Site design – meetings with LARCH continue. Design committee has made choice on path materials to be gravel: sub grade = 5/8”- and finish = ¼”-. BFF team agreed to do research on material donations. We are discussing a Unifying design theme as water.
· fundraising – Sustainable Path Grant committee wants to meet with us at the site as part of our application for funds; this does not guarantee funding. April 18 date chosen
DECISIONS /ACTIONS
Sign - Peter will get help from Gloria and Briar and they will make a draft to bring to steerco. Sign will have the newer schematic which will come from design meetings later this spring.
Organizational governance/ Retreat – discussion was held to consider a retreat , which was discussed as a longer meeting guided by a facilitation process described by Pennie O’Grady as dynamic facilitation. This process is not agenda-driven and will address our question of how we expand ‘we’ in a thoughtful and intentional way that is pro active. We will discuss governance and community involvement. It was agreed that we would like to have a retreat in order to begin exploring this topic. Jacqueline agreed to organize where, when, who to invite, with Peter’s help.
Salesforce – issue was tabled until we get more info from Adam. questions do include how to capture hand-written names, and a date for training with Adam.
sign-up sheets – Bob Redmond provided a list entitled Work Groups , categories of names of people who self-organized and signed up at March 22 meeting. Julie and Peter will enter them into excel spread sheets for or use. We will use the work groups to communicate with volunteers on projects, adding names as we go.
communications tools - there are many available. Jacqueline will contact Daniel Johnson for research.
Veterans Administration outreach conducted by Diana Castillo who reports a strong interest in collaborating with BFF and contact person who would like to meet with our team.
Worksops- canning – we agreed to co sponsor a canning workshop with Dianah Vinh to provide canning workshops and will send the message through our BFF network. Christina will coordinate with Dianah, and we will need more people to get involved to help coordinate. Cheryl is willing to post workshop descriptions on our website. Send workshop descriptions to Cheryl
City Fruit ACT Grant – this grant is secured and will provide workshops and plant material. Jacqueline and Glenn will coordinate with Gail Savina of City Fruit. It was agreed that the first workshop will be renovating old fruit trees; also agreed that the steerco will coordinate a planting party for bare root baby plants and care for them through summer till planting time in fall.
SCHEDULE - The development of the site plans and documents is going a little more slowly than first detailed. Work parties may begin in June. Design committee will keep steerco updated.
Next Public Meeting/event – May 19 Public Tour of BFF Site
New outreach Coordinator = Cheryl Wilder who stepped forward. Much appreciation was given to Christina for all of her work these past years. Cheryl spoke of leveraging community members for a multiplier effect.
Parking lot – How to collect money for work shops
Next steerco meeting April 25, 2012 at Cheryl’s house
Check out – facilitation by Bob was excellent. The very large agenda forced discipline for time keeping and left little time for human connection. Desires expressed for meetings with less full agenda.
March 28, 2012
Attending; Bob Redmond, Briar Bates, Christina Olson, Giovanni Dellino, Julie Haack, Cheryl Wilder, Gloria Bradford, Pennie O’Grady, Diana Castillo, Glenn Herlihy, Peter Laing, Jacqueline Cramer
Agenda approved; meeting facilitated by bob Redmond
Minutes from March 1 meeting will be sent via email and approved at next meeting.
Agreed : future meeting minutes be 1st sent out draft via email, then, 2nd propose changes at following meeting and approved.
Updates
· Outreach – language we use needs to be inclusive and offer suggestions to people why/how this project will serve them and the community. Phrases for multi-cultural messaging: healthy food, garden plots in your neighborhood, healthy communities. Consider meeting times – include Saturday meetings. We need to take the initiative. questions exist on how we communicate with OSP’s: directly or through Phi at DON?
· Site design – meetings with LARCH continue. Design committee has made choice on path materials to be gravel: sub grade = 5/8”- and finish = ¼”-. BFF team agreed to do research on material donations. We are discussing a Unifying design theme as water.
· fundraising – Sustainable Path Grant committee wants to meet with us at the site as part of our application for funds; this does not guarantee funding. April 18 date chosen
DECISIONS /ACTIONS
Sign - Peter will get help from Gloria and Briar and they will make a draft to bring to steerco. Sign will have the newer schematic which will come from design meetings later this spring.
Organizational governance/ Retreat – discussion was held to consider a retreat , which was discussed as a longer meeting guided by a facilitation process described by Pennie O’Grady as dynamic facilitation. This process is not agenda-driven and will address our question of how we expand ‘we’ in a thoughtful and intentional way that is pro active. We will discuss governance and community involvement. It was agreed that we would like to have a retreat in order to begin exploring this topic. Jacqueline agreed to organize where, when, who to invite, with Peter’s help.
Salesforce – issue was tabled until we get more info from Adam. questions do include how to capture hand-written names, and a date for training with Adam.
sign-up sheets – Bob Redmond provided a list entitled Work Groups , categories of names of people who self-organized and signed up at March 22 meeting. Julie and Peter will enter them into excel spread sheets for or use. We will use the work groups to communicate with volunteers on projects, adding names as we go.
communications tools - there are many available. Jacqueline will contact Daniel Johnson for research.
Veterans Administration outreach conducted by Diana Castillo who reports a strong interest in collaborating with BFF and contact person who would like to meet with our team.
Worksops- canning – we agreed to co sponsor a canning workshop with Dianah Vinh to provide canning workshops and will send the message through our BFF network. Christina will coordinate with Dianah, and we will need more people to get involved to help coordinate. Cheryl is willing to post workshop descriptions on our website. Send workshop descriptions to Cheryl
City Fruit ACT Grant – this grant is secured and will provide workshops and plant material. Jacqueline and Glenn will coordinate with Gail Savina of City Fruit. It was agreed that the first workshop will be renovating old fruit trees; also agreed that the steerco will coordinate a planting party for bare root baby plants and care for them through summer till planting time in fall.
SCHEDULE - The development of the site plans and documents is going a little more slowly than first detailed. Work parties may begin in June. Design committee will keep steerco updated.
Next Public Meeting/event – May 19 Public Tour of BFF Site
New outreach Coordinator = Cheryl Wilder who stepped forward. Much appreciation was given to Christina for all of her work these past years. Cheryl spoke of leveraging community members for a multiplier effect.
Parking lot – How to collect money for work shops
Next steerco meeting April 25, 2012 at Cheryl’s house
Check out – facilitation by Bob was excellent. The very large agenda forced discipline for time keeping and left little time for human connection. Desires expressed for meetings with less full agenda.
Steering Committee Meeting Minutes
January 26, 2012
SteerCo: Christina O, Jacqueline C, Peter L, Glenn H.
P Patch: Phi Huynh
Guest: Giovanni Dellino
This was our first meeting in the Beacon Merchant’s Association space in the Beacon Hill Library and it is a spacious, well appointed room for our regular meetings. Thanks to Robert Hindrix for making it available to us on a regular basis. A fair exchange is for those who can to volunteer some time to staff the office so the community can come in and look at information and get updates on projects going on here on Beacon Hill. Glenn has volunteered to do some time.
Glenn reported on our facebook traffic, we’re getting “liked” a lot, and there appears to be a recent trend of women 17-35 years old who are visiting and reading about us.
Phi Huynh of P-Patch staff introduced his part of the partnership BFF and P Patch have, specifically the outreach to minority communities. The outreach support specialists he will have on board are funded by the Parks and Greenspace Levy and will support outreach at all the new p patches. This is project employment and we were urged to recruit any neighbors that might be interested. He has provided a job description and requirements via e mail to the Committee. He also is recruiting amongst the community thru various means. Each culture functions differently, and responds most positively to information conveyed by community members. We talked about how many of these specialists we needed-Hispanic, Chinese, Vietnamese, Filipino, and Somali are what we know we have. The Hispanic person has been selected. The Committee needs to develop a timeline for events for which the service providers will be needed (see Laura’s schedule). For certain we want attention regarding the Beacon Hill Festival in June and the Park grand opening in July, and the groundbreaking/tree planting in the fall. In planning events try to think of what barriers there are to attending, dinner, childcare, language, place…..
We talked about brochures to be distributed; Phi said we can translate core materials but the keep in mind that personal contact is more effective. Phi can help with printing. We have some FAQ’s left over from the design meetings; maybe that is a place to start.
Track hours, Phi reminded us to invite the community to help in many ways to accumulate volunteer hours, meetings, art/computer, table at events, we can use the p patch list serve to broadcast opportunities. Volunteering is what moves people up on the priority list for p patch assignments.
We should hit the BH and other south end blogs, mailing lists, etc.
Communications—for significant moves, and questions cc both Laura and Phi, they are our P Patch team for all sorts of advice and assistance.
We talked about another movie night to continue to build community. Co sponsor with Beacon Hill Garden Club and Urban Bee Company (Bob Redmond). The film would be about disappearing honey bees-discussion of if the showing fee and hall rental is covered under outreach. Ask Laura for sure. Fee is $100, rental is $40. We will contact Adam to see if he & projector are available for Friday, March 2. Will wait for reply to book Garden House.
Jacqueline spoke of request by Sustainable Path for a schedule and budget. She worked with Jason Madieros to get the data needed and will work with Laura for the schedule. J feels the grant could support the site with a thorough sign plan of durable materials.
J. also has located another professional adept at grading from a permaculture perspective. She asked it there was interest in meeting on site to discuss next week. A few folks are interested. Jackie will set the appointment.
Peter expressed a need for additional direction for the sign, need for graphic support, do we have a logo? He will work with Glenn, coordinate with Laura over what her sign looks like, and figure out text (simple) to translate.
Glenn presented some preliminary logos he has worked on—quite wonderful. It is a real challenge to tell a story and keep it simple. He’ll continue working on them.
Raffle of Goodness winners: Phi, Glenn, Jacqueline!
Next Meeting: 6:00 pm Monday, February 13, 2012 at the Merchant’s Office in the Library
Agenda to include sign, governance, timeline. submit other items to Glenn.
January 26, 2012
SteerCo: Christina O, Jacqueline C, Peter L, Glenn H.
P Patch: Phi Huynh
Guest: Giovanni Dellino
This was our first meeting in the Beacon Merchant’s Association space in the Beacon Hill Library and it is a spacious, well appointed room for our regular meetings. Thanks to Robert Hindrix for making it available to us on a regular basis. A fair exchange is for those who can to volunteer some time to staff the office so the community can come in and look at information and get updates on projects going on here on Beacon Hill. Glenn has volunteered to do some time.
Glenn reported on our facebook traffic, we’re getting “liked” a lot, and there appears to be a recent trend of women 17-35 years old who are visiting and reading about us.
Phi Huynh of P-Patch staff introduced his part of the partnership BFF and P Patch have, specifically the outreach to minority communities. The outreach support specialists he will have on board are funded by the Parks and Greenspace Levy and will support outreach at all the new p patches. This is project employment and we were urged to recruit any neighbors that might be interested. He has provided a job description and requirements via e mail to the Committee. He also is recruiting amongst the community thru various means. Each culture functions differently, and responds most positively to information conveyed by community members. We talked about how many of these specialists we needed-Hispanic, Chinese, Vietnamese, Filipino, and Somali are what we know we have. The Hispanic person has been selected. The Committee needs to develop a timeline for events for which the service providers will be needed (see Laura’s schedule). For certain we want attention regarding the Beacon Hill Festival in June and the Park grand opening in July, and the groundbreaking/tree planting in the fall. In planning events try to think of what barriers there are to attending, dinner, childcare, language, place…..
We talked about brochures to be distributed; Phi said we can translate core materials but the keep in mind that personal contact is more effective. Phi can help with printing. We have some FAQ’s left over from the design meetings; maybe that is a place to start.
Track hours, Phi reminded us to invite the community to help in many ways to accumulate volunteer hours, meetings, art/computer, table at events, we can use the p patch list serve to broadcast opportunities. Volunteering is what moves people up on the priority list for p patch assignments.
We should hit the BH and other south end blogs, mailing lists, etc.
Communications—for significant moves, and questions cc both Laura and Phi, they are our P Patch team for all sorts of advice and assistance.
We talked about another movie night to continue to build community. Co sponsor with Beacon Hill Garden Club and Urban Bee Company (Bob Redmond). The film would be about disappearing honey bees-discussion of if the showing fee and hall rental is covered under outreach. Ask Laura for sure. Fee is $100, rental is $40. We will contact Adam to see if he & projector are available for Friday, March 2. Will wait for reply to book Garden House.
Jacqueline spoke of request by Sustainable Path for a schedule and budget. She worked with Jason Madieros to get the data needed and will work with Laura for the schedule. J feels the grant could support the site with a thorough sign plan of durable materials.
J. also has located another professional adept at grading from a permaculture perspective. She asked it there was interest in meeting on site to discuss next week. A few folks are interested. Jackie will set the appointment.
Peter expressed a need for additional direction for the sign, need for graphic support, do we have a logo? He will work with Glenn, coordinate with Laura over what her sign looks like, and figure out text (simple) to translate.
Glenn presented some preliminary logos he has worked on—quite wonderful. It is a real challenge to tell a story and keep it simple. He’ll continue working on them.
Raffle of Goodness winners: Phi, Glenn, Jacqueline!
Next Meeting: 6:00 pm Monday, February 13, 2012 at the Merchant’s Office in the Library
Agenda to include sign, governance, timeline. submit other items to Glenn.
Beacon Food Forest
Steering Committee Meeting
January 18, 2012
Members Attending: Christina O, Melanie C, Peter L, Adam L, Glenn H, Julie H.
DON/P Patch staff: Laura Raymond
We met at Travelers Thali House for a dinner meeting on a snowy evening. We were multi-modal having arrived on foot, on skis, and by car. Our dinner was courtesy of Alice Doyel who had donated gift certificates to the Beacon Food Forest. Thanks Alice!
Minutes of the previous meeting were approved and will be posted to the website by Glenn.
Beacon Food Forest soon to get more press; Glenn, Laura and Jenny Pell have been interviewed by Rob Mellinger for an article to appear on the on-line journal Crosscut.
We’ll post that link on our Facebook page.
Laura led off with recommendations for defining next steps and a timeline for moving the Food Forest forward. This will include contracting for further design details needed for approvals and also the need to define how permaculture specific grading can fold into both the contract with the designer and fold into the review and inspection processes.
Melanie and Laura met earlier to discuss permitting with the city and develop a game plan to plug into the DPD process. Melanie suspects we qualify as an exempt project (exempt from SEPA review) as a public project. We still need to review our storm water and erosion control aspects, critical areas (wetlands, steep slopes) general cultural resources, figure out our grading quantities (to see if we exceed thresholds). Laura showed GIS printouts of the site. Depending on the steepness of slopes and the type of soils, a specific design and way of working may be needed. We are assuming the wetlands are non-jurisdictional and may not require a review/permit by the Corps of Engineers. However, under the Critical Area Ordinance of Seattle, there may be buffers required.
The most important thing to move forward with at this point is further development of site design so we can consult with DPD and other agencies. Sometimes this is a “counter conversation” with staff, sometimes it is a formal submittal for review. The Committee wishes to continue its association with Harrison Design. The Committee is concerned that permaculture specific grading knowledge be incorporated—Laura said she can write in a requirement to subcontract that specific task. Laura will write the contract for the more detailed design development, grading, irrigation, and those landscape features needing review (ADA paths, retaining walls, big structures such as arbors). Laura referred the curious to DPD Client Assistance Memos (CAM) for guidance on some of these items.
Administration—Laura does the contracting and pre-approves expenditures (generally those above $150). Receipts required for reimbursements. If there is a question, call her prior. She can provide some support for copying, small laminating.
Decisions for the contracting/design development phase will be made by Laura with her checking in with us. If we have concerns/objections, let her know promptly.
We need to consider breaking into task groups for efficiency regarding some of the technical/design stuff and outreach. Adam, Christina and Moni have expressed interest in outreach.
For design details, Laura is willing to help provide a list, lead a little tour of p patches that have distinct design details. We should make a list of what we want to see, for example, types of bed edging, gathering spaces, sheds, and aesthetic themes. Be thinking and make a list. Christina wants to see art and whimsy examples. More on this next meeting.
There will be a safety and Office of Economic Development review by the city, typically at the 70% plan stage. Laura will coordinate that but Glenn will investigate an early review by SPD Mark Solomon at South Precinct. Margarett probably has the training and likely integrated safety principles into the design at the early stage.
Discussion followed integrating our Food Forest contact list with the P Patch list. If Glenn can get it to Laura she has staff that can enter it into the city system. We still need to get it into Salesforce. Laura said she can get Adam an Excel file that he can merge with Salesforce Ultimately, this will simplify how we gather data and inform our fans.
Phase 1 Timeline: Goal is to begin planting trees in October; Signs go up in the spring (maybe a little event) Glenn working on the design for the sign supports. Opening of Jefferson Park is scheduled for mid-July; Food Forest has great opportunity to outreach.
January Provide BFF contact list to P-Patch Office
February Contract written and signed with Harrison Design
Steerco & P Patch coord. with Harrison Design:
· Continue to explore slope, water hookup issues
· Steerco decide how many p patches, sizes to direct design
· Signs up by end of Feb., Peter work with Laura
March Construction drawings completed by end of March
City review of grading plan, Acquire Permits if needed (grading, etc.)
April Staking Party?
Contract for construction work
Contracted work begins mid-April:
· Grading mid-April, water hook-ups
· Irrigation Installation (either contract or volunteer)
· Gravel Pathways
May Contracted work completed by end of May
Spring Ground-breaking Party event
Late May – October
Volunteer Work Parties
December
Phase 1 Construction Complete (Celebrate!)
Laura will further define the timeline and e mail us a copy.
Aim for groundbreaking event and first planting party in October.
Next meeting will be Thursday January 26 at the Beacon Hill Library, Beacon Merchant’s Office off the lobby. Starts at 6pm.
Raffle of Goodness winner: Peter!
We adjourned at around 9pm and all slid home.
Steering Committee Meeting
January 18, 2012
Members Attending: Christina O, Melanie C, Peter L, Adam L, Glenn H, Julie H.
DON/P Patch staff: Laura Raymond
We met at Travelers Thali House for a dinner meeting on a snowy evening. We were multi-modal having arrived on foot, on skis, and by car. Our dinner was courtesy of Alice Doyel who had donated gift certificates to the Beacon Food Forest. Thanks Alice!
Minutes of the previous meeting were approved and will be posted to the website by Glenn.
Beacon Food Forest soon to get more press; Glenn, Laura and Jenny Pell have been interviewed by Rob Mellinger for an article to appear on the on-line journal Crosscut.
We’ll post that link on our Facebook page.
Laura led off with recommendations for defining next steps and a timeline for moving the Food Forest forward. This will include contracting for further design details needed for approvals and also the need to define how permaculture specific grading can fold into both the contract with the designer and fold into the review and inspection processes.
Melanie and Laura met earlier to discuss permitting with the city and develop a game plan to plug into the DPD process. Melanie suspects we qualify as an exempt project (exempt from SEPA review) as a public project. We still need to review our storm water and erosion control aspects, critical areas (wetlands, steep slopes) general cultural resources, figure out our grading quantities (to see if we exceed thresholds). Laura showed GIS printouts of the site. Depending on the steepness of slopes and the type of soils, a specific design and way of working may be needed. We are assuming the wetlands are non-jurisdictional and may not require a review/permit by the Corps of Engineers. However, under the Critical Area Ordinance of Seattle, there may be buffers required.
The most important thing to move forward with at this point is further development of site design so we can consult with DPD and other agencies. Sometimes this is a “counter conversation” with staff, sometimes it is a formal submittal for review. The Committee wishes to continue its association with Harrison Design. The Committee is concerned that permaculture specific grading knowledge be incorporated—Laura said she can write in a requirement to subcontract that specific task. Laura will write the contract for the more detailed design development, grading, irrigation, and those landscape features needing review (ADA paths, retaining walls, big structures such as arbors). Laura referred the curious to DPD Client Assistance Memos (CAM) for guidance on some of these items.
Administration—Laura does the contracting and pre-approves expenditures (generally those above $150). Receipts required for reimbursements. If there is a question, call her prior. She can provide some support for copying, small laminating.
Decisions for the contracting/design development phase will be made by Laura with her checking in with us. If we have concerns/objections, let her know promptly.
We need to consider breaking into task groups for efficiency regarding some of the technical/design stuff and outreach. Adam, Christina and Moni have expressed interest in outreach.
For design details, Laura is willing to help provide a list, lead a little tour of p patches that have distinct design details. We should make a list of what we want to see, for example, types of bed edging, gathering spaces, sheds, and aesthetic themes. Be thinking and make a list. Christina wants to see art and whimsy examples. More on this next meeting.
There will be a safety and Office of Economic Development review by the city, typically at the 70% plan stage. Laura will coordinate that but Glenn will investigate an early review by SPD Mark Solomon at South Precinct. Margarett probably has the training and likely integrated safety principles into the design at the early stage.
Discussion followed integrating our Food Forest contact list with the P Patch list. If Glenn can get it to Laura she has staff that can enter it into the city system. We still need to get it into Salesforce. Laura said she can get Adam an Excel file that he can merge with Salesforce Ultimately, this will simplify how we gather data and inform our fans.
Phase 1 Timeline: Goal is to begin planting trees in October; Signs go up in the spring (maybe a little event) Glenn working on the design for the sign supports. Opening of Jefferson Park is scheduled for mid-July; Food Forest has great opportunity to outreach.
January Provide BFF contact list to P-Patch Office
February Contract written and signed with Harrison Design
Steerco & P Patch coord. with Harrison Design:
· Continue to explore slope, water hookup issues
· Steerco decide how many p patches, sizes to direct design
· Signs up by end of Feb., Peter work with Laura
March Construction drawings completed by end of March
City review of grading plan, Acquire Permits if needed (grading, etc.)
April Staking Party?
Contract for construction work
Contracted work begins mid-April:
· Grading mid-April, water hook-ups
· Irrigation Installation (either contract or volunteer)
· Gravel Pathways
May Contracted work completed by end of May
Spring Ground-breaking Party event
Late May – October
Volunteer Work Parties
- P Patch plot construction, decide # (increments of 100ft)
- Garden bed preparation, edging, soils,
- Interior paths mulched
- Construct some ADA raised beds
- Compost bins, tool shed, arbor, small gathering area for BBQ?
- Plant trees and Shrubs (Late Sept – Oct)
December
Phase 1 Construction Complete (Celebrate!)
Laura will further define the timeline and e mail us a copy.
Aim for groundbreaking event and first planting party in October.
Next meeting will be Thursday January 26 at the Beacon Hill Library, Beacon Merchant’s Office off the lobby. Starts at 6pm.
Raffle of Goodness winner: Peter!
We adjourned at around 9pm and all slid home.
_Beacon Food Forest
Steering Committee Meeting Minutes
January 9, 2012
SteerCo Members: Christina O, Melanie C, Glenn H, Jacqueline C, Moni M, Adam L (thanks for hosting), Peter L, Julie H, Roberta R (welcome to SteerCo Roberta!)
Guests: Jehan Whittaker, Seattle Youth Engagement Zone at Cleveland High School
Gail Savina, City Fruit
Laura Raymond, Seattle DON, P-Patch, Parks & Greenspace Levy staff liaison
The steering committee voted to adopt minutes of last meeting; they will be posted to the website.
The movie night event (A Man Called Pearl) at the Garden House on Dec 9 raised $145 and was a successful collaboration with the Beacon Hill Garden Club.
The final report for the 2011 Small and Simple grant has been submitted to Department of Neighborhoods. We met the goals we set for ourselves a year ago, engaging our neighbors in a community design for the Beacon Food Forest. We forged new partnerships, met new friends, and emerged even more optimistic than when we started. We managed the grant well, turning back a small amount of the funds. We exceeded, by far, the community match hours for volunteers (final hours will be coming). A laminated metal site sign describing the project in multiple languages will be finalized and delivered in early 2012. Peter will coordinate with Laura and Glenn regarding specifics and language choices.
The designer (Margarett Harrison) delivered a cost estimate for the construction of Phase 1 (excluding final design costs permit fees, cost of p patches and estimating contingencies) for $592,000.
Gail Savina director of City Fruit reported on the progress of the Rainier Valley Eats grant from DNR and USDA that aims to buy plants and train stewards for urban fruit trees in South Seattle. Training sessions have been scheduled and some Food Forest steerco members will attend this month’s classes on fruit tree biology and pruning. Jacqueline and Glenn selected varieties of fruit trees that will likely be purchased from Raintree Nursery. This will probably be our demonstration garden, constructed to highlight permaculture principles. It will likely be located in a triangular area at the junction of 16th Ave and the asphalt path leading up to the park. This will be highly visible to park visitors and accessible with minimal effort from the parking area and 16th Ave and Dakota St. The site is minimally sloped but there still needs to be coordination with site preparation to minimize conflicts.
Gail also updated the committee on progress of a grant application to the Alliance for Community Trees (ACT) which has teamed with the American Gardening Society to supply fruit trees to communities. Their emphasis is on funding sites, providing trees and community education on the care of the trees. The applicant must be a member of ACT, and City Fruit will join the alliance. If awarded, this grant could apply $5000 for trees, tools, temporary water (tree bags) and support our outreach and educational efforts (including translation of materials). City Fruit would assume some management tasks and be compensated for that from our grant. Gail has the demographic info showing racial and ethnic makeup of our neighborhood and some indications of income levels from statistics on free and reduced lunch for local students. This grant offers the opportunity to reach beyond the Food Forest into other public places (Jose Rizal, El Centro, and schools), the back yards of our neighbors by teaching care of fruit trees no matter where they are planted. Could also do a tree renovation class—lots of old trees in the neighborhood that are neglected (including the Garden House, need assess # and condition of the trees and talk to the AWSGC/house coordinator to get permission),. Important component is specifically how the trees will benefit the community—we propose food bank donation, perhaps community meal programs, processing classes for storage. The application requires a letter of support from the landowner and a draft from SPU has been completed, still needing some language about water availability. Glenn will send Gail the electronic site plan, Gail will send Glenn a draft, Glenn will send to SPU, and hopefully the signed SPU letter will be returned to Glenn and Gail in time--grant submission is January 28th with the awards announced at the end of February. Some education could take place (summer pruning) but planting at the Food Forest would occur in the fall.
Jehan Whittaker of Seattle Youth Engagement Zone at Cleveland High School briefed us about her program which focuses on service leaning and community service as a way of engaging youth in their community. It seeks to integrate classroom learning with community endeavors (example, physics class, building bikes and learning the principles of physics, then donating the bikes back to the community—Bikeworks) Seeks to engage the incoming Cleveland freshmen from the middle schools to ease transition and focus on learning and service. Jehan administers a summer program, hiring teachers in June, begin instruction in July. Be careful how to approach regular staff regarding opportunities at the Food Forest. Use Jehann as the bridge to the horticulture and science teachers. Have a well thought out plan to offer them on how we can integrate into their future lesson plans (this will take coordination, there are lots of sample lesson plans on the web re gardening and classroom work) DTF (Disappearing Task Force) proposed: Peter, Melanie, Christina, Glenn will meet and decide how to proceed. Jehan is on staff until September 2013.
Jacqueline next briefed us on the grant application to Sustainable Path Foundation (sustainablepath.org) which awards grants $5000 to $20,000 to projects in the Puget Sound area. They are at the intersection of science and sustainability. The letter of intent was due at midnight. Ms. Cramer pulled out all the stops and got it submitted. A full grant application will follow. Thanks to Jenny Pell for the heads up. If awarded, this grant would also support the Food Forest with plants, tools, outreach and education.
Laura Raymond of DON P-Patch and our staff contact regarding our $100,000 award from the Parks and Greenspace Levy (thanks voters!) walked us through some of the process to get us started with permissions and procedures for site development. Laura will be working with staff of other departments (Parks, SPU, and DPD) to clear the path for the site work to begin. Melanie has also been using GIS resources to anticipate some reviews—we have steep slopes and a wetland which will require a technical review including drainage and soil (we have soil test results). She thinks we are SEPA exempt but there is still a process to follow.
Laura is the banker for this money, and she has done some thinking on just what the $100,000 will move us ahead with—support of general outreach, design development (we can use Harrison Design again, but there may need to be a letter to file or some other way to justify not going to a full bidding process). Grading, water systems and perhaps a shed. One way to hold down costs is partnering with the Conservation Corps which is a job training program run thru Parks Dept—they have skilled people, machinery, and experience. SteerCo emphasized that the grading be done specifically to ensure success of the site for permaculture—there are outside resources if Margarett and Jenny need help incorporating into construction drawings.
We will need construction documents (Glenn will do the check with Police regarding safety review) permitting (Melanie warns this can take a lot of time, even if exempt) construction (what is contracted, what isn’t). We need a good itemized budget and a timeline for Phase 1. Jackie said she’d be interested in working on that.
We also discussed use of recycled materials, but need to discuss what our aesthetic will be. Specifically, design elements (paths, retaining walls, structures [benches, tables, trellis, shed] need to be developed to provide a cohesive appearance. Will we be natural/rustic (wood/rocks), urban/industrial (metal, rusty) combination or something else? This decision requires a roundtable, sketchpads, mag clips and beer. Laura said there are “bone yards” of materials; Glenn will talk to Andy Sheffer of Parks to see what might be available. Melanie said SDOT has some too—warned of effects of broken concrete leaching into soils—deleterious to plant growth. Someone research??
Discussion of water particulars—Laura will coordinate the water certificate, form, size of meter needed, location. She will do site visit. Showed map with water lines, appears meter may be at Parks shed uphill of the Citywide Horticulture greenhouses. Food Forest should provide information on anticipated needs, such as # hose bibs for p patch plots and fruit/nut locations. Laura will work with David Mannerly to ease the process. She thought water pressure in this area would be adequate for our needs. Glenn also mentioned Lee Nelson a hydrologist who has offered to help with water -- Glenn will contact him.
Some interest in forming the Outreach Committee—Moni, Adam, Christina—let’s talk more about this at a future meeting—Laura has a staff member Phi Huynh who is dedicated to this and can help us interact (or do the work) on a personal basis. We’ll need to devise a strategy and identify opportunities. Keep looking for community events we can table at.
Steerco meetings—we should try to have some at public place to invite community to attend, Glenn will check library meeting room availability, and check with Robert Hendrix about the community info center at the library.
Raffle of Goodness winner: Moni!!
Next meeting : Wednesday. Jan 18th 6:30 at Travelers Tea House
2524 Beacon Ave S. (the big table)
Beacon Food Forest
Steering Committee Meeting Minutes
January 9, 2012
SteerCo Members: Christina O, Melanie C, Glenn H, Jacqueline C, Moni M, Adam L (thanks for hosting), Peter L, Julie H, Roberta R (welcome to SteerCo Roberta!)
Guests: Jehan Whittaker, Seattle Youth Engagement Zone at Cleveland High School
Gail Savina, City Fruit
Laura Raymond, Seattle DON, P-Patch, Parks & Greenspace Levy staff liaison
The steering committee voted to adopt minutes of last meeting; they will be posted to the website.
The movie night event (A Man Called Pearl) at the Garden House on Dec 9 raised $145 and was a successful collaboration with the Beacon Hill Garden Club.
The final report for the 2011 Small and Simple grant has been submitted to Department of Neighborhoods. We met the goals we set for ourselves a year ago, engaging our neighbors in a community design for the Beacon Food Forest. We forged new partnerships, met new friends, and emerged even more optimistic than when we started. We managed the grant well, turning back a small amount of the funds. We exceeded, by far, the community match hours for volunteers (final hours will be coming). A laminated metal site sign describing the project in multiple languages will be finalized and delivered in early 2012. Peter will coordinate with Laura and Glenn regarding specifics and language choices.
The designer (Margarett Harrison) delivered a cost estimate for the construction of Phase 1 (excluding final design costs permit fees, cost of p patches and estimating contingencies) for $592,000.
Gail Savina director of City Fruit reported on the progress of the Rainier Valley Eats grant from DNR and USDA that aims to buy plants and train stewards for urban fruit trees in South Seattle. Training sessions have been scheduled and some Food Forest steerco members will attend this month’s classes on fruit tree biology and pruning. Jacqueline and Glenn selected varieties of fruit trees that will likely be purchased from Raintree Nursery. This will probably be our demonstration garden, constructed to highlight permaculture principles. It will likely be located in a triangular area at the junction of 16th Ave and the asphalt path leading up to the park. This will be highly visible to park visitors and accessible with minimal effort from the parking area and 16th Ave and Dakota St. The site is minimally sloped but there still needs to be coordination with site preparation to minimize conflicts.
Gail also updated the committee on progress of a grant application to the Alliance for Community Trees (ACT) which has teamed with the American Gardening Society to supply fruit trees to communities. Their emphasis is on funding sites, providing trees and community education on the care of the trees. The applicant must be a member of ACT, and City Fruit will join the alliance. If awarded, this grant could apply $5000 for trees, tools, temporary water (tree bags) and support our outreach and educational efforts (including translation of materials). City Fruit would assume some management tasks and be compensated for that from our grant. Gail has the demographic info showing racial and ethnic makeup of our neighborhood and some indications of income levels from statistics on free and reduced lunch for local students. This grant offers the opportunity to reach beyond the Food Forest into other public places (Jose Rizal, El Centro, and schools), the back yards of our neighbors by teaching care of fruit trees no matter where they are planted. Could also do a tree renovation class—lots of old trees in the neighborhood that are neglected (including the Garden House, need assess # and condition of the trees and talk to the AWSGC/house coordinator to get permission),. Important component is specifically how the trees will benefit the community—we propose food bank donation, perhaps community meal programs, processing classes for storage. The application requires a letter of support from the landowner and a draft from SPU has been completed, still needing some language about water availability. Glenn will send Gail the electronic site plan, Gail will send Glenn a draft, Glenn will send to SPU, and hopefully the signed SPU letter will be returned to Glenn and Gail in time--grant submission is January 28th with the awards announced at the end of February. Some education could take place (summer pruning) but planting at the Food Forest would occur in the fall.
Jehan Whittaker of Seattle Youth Engagement Zone at Cleveland High School briefed us about her program which focuses on service leaning and community service as a way of engaging youth in their community. It seeks to integrate classroom learning with community endeavors (example, physics class, building bikes and learning the principles of physics, then donating the bikes back to the community—Bikeworks) Seeks to engage the incoming Cleveland freshmen from the middle schools to ease transition and focus on learning and service. Jehan administers a summer program, hiring teachers in June, begin instruction in July. Be careful how to approach regular staff regarding opportunities at the Food Forest. Use Jehann as the bridge to the horticulture and science teachers. Have a well thought out plan to offer them on how we can integrate into their future lesson plans (this will take coordination, there are lots of sample lesson plans on the web re gardening and classroom work) DTF (Disappearing Task Force) proposed: Peter, Melanie, Christina, Glenn will meet and decide how to proceed. Jehan is on staff until September 2013.
Jacqueline next briefed us on the grant application to Sustainable Path Foundation (sustainablepath.org) which awards grants $5000 to $20,000 to projects in the Puget Sound area. They are at the intersection of science and sustainability. The letter of intent was due at midnight. Ms. Cramer pulled out all the stops and got it submitted. A full grant application will follow. Thanks to Jenny Pell for the heads up. If awarded, this grant would also support the Food Forest with plants, tools, outreach and education.
Laura Raymond of DON P-Patch and our staff contact regarding our $100,000 award from the Parks and Greenspace Levy (thanks voters!) walked us through some of the process to get us started with permissions and procedures for site development. Laura will be working with staff of other departments (Parks, SPU, and DPD) to clear the path for the site work to begin. Melanie has also been using GIS resources to anticipate some reviews—we have steep slopes and a wetland which will require a technical review including drainage and soil (we have soil test results). She thinks we are SEPA exempt but there is still a process to follow.
Laura is the banker for this money, and she has done some thinking on just what the $100,000 will move us ahead with—support of general outreach, design development (we can use Harrison Design again, but there may need to be a letter to file or some other way to justify not going to a full bidding process). Grading, water systems and perhaps a shed. One way to hold down costs is partnering with the Conservation Corps which is a job training program run thru Parks Dept—they have skilled people, machinery, and experience. SteerCo emphasized that the grading be done specifically to ensure success of the site for permaculture—there are outside resources if Margarett and Jenny need help incorporating into construction drawings.
We will need construction documents (Glenn will do the check with Police regarding safety review) permitting (Melanie warns this can take a lot of time, even if exempt) construction (what is contracted, what isn’t). We need a good itemized budget and a timeline for Phase 1. Jackie said she’d be interested in working on that.
We also discussed use of recycled materials, but need to discuss what our aesthetic will be. Specifically, design elements (paths, retaining walls, structures [benches, tables, trellis, shed] need to be developed to provide a cohesive appearance. Will we be natural/rustic (wood/rocks), urban/industrial (metal, rusty) combination or something else? This decision requires a roundtable, sketchpads, mag clips and beer. Laura said there are “bone yards” of materials; Glenn will talk to Andy Sheffer of Parks to see what might be available. Melanie said SDOT has some too—warned of effects of broken concrete leaching into soils—deleterious to plant growth. Someone research??
Discussion of water particulars—Laura will coordinate the water certificate, form, size of meter needed, location. She will do site visit. Showed map with water lines, appears meter may be at Parks shed uphill of the Citywide Horticulture greenhouses. Food Forest should provide information on anticipated needs, such as # hose bibs for p patch plots and fruit/nut locations. Laura will work with David Mannerly to ease the process. She thought water pressure in this area would be adequate for our needs. Glenn also mentioned Lee Nelson a hydrologist who has offered to help with water -- Glenn will contact him.
Some interest in forming the Outreach Committee—Moni, Adam, Christina—let’s talk more about this at a future meeting—Laura has a staff member Phi Huynh who is dedicated to this and can help us interact (or do the work) on a personal basis. We’ll need to devise a strategy and identify opportunities. Keep looking for community events we can table at.
Steerco meetings—we should try to have some at public place to invite community to attend, Glenn will check library meeting room availability, and check with Robert Hendrix about the community info center at the library.
Raffle of Goodness winner: Moni!!
Next meeting : Wednesday. Jan 18th 6:30 at Travelers Tea House
2524 Beacon Ave S. (the big table)
Beacon Food Forest
_ GRANT BEACON FOOD FOREST COMMUNITY SCHEMATIC DESIGN PHASE ONE
COMMUNITY DESIGN MEETING NUMBER TWO: July 13, 2011
The Friends of Beacon Food Forest hosted the second community design workshop for the DON SAS Grant Phase One Schematic Design on July 13, 2011 at the downstairs meeting room at EL Centro de la Raza Community Center on Beacon Hill.
Summer evening light streamed in the windows and excitement was palpable as the room continued to fill with community members, numbering 70. As people arrived, they were encouraged to sign in enjoy dinner at one of many tables. Each table had a centerpiece of quiz cards devised to inform and connect participants on issues of Food Forests, farming and food security.. Dinner was served to all. The Landscape Architecture Design team, Harrison Design Team facilitated the session.
They presented three different design options displayed on a screen from a projector. Each Jenny Pell and Margaret Harrison explained the designs and their features, educating and giving reasons why a feature was chosen. They answered questions as they arose.
After the slide show, participants were invited to view each of the three designs as they were displayed on separate tables which were covered with blank white paper. People were encouraged to write comments on the paper in response to the designs. BFF Steering Committee members and Designers circulated around the room to answer questions and encourage dialogue. The comment sheets were collected at the end of the meeting and recorded by Chrisitina Olson, member of BFF steering committee. The summary of these comments is attached to this document.
The participants regrouped and an open discussion was held as people shared their impressions and opinions. Many people commented on a desire to see more meandering paths. Neighbors interacted with each other and the designers, sharing experiences and concerns. Notes were taken and added to summary comments. As people shared ideas, it was clear that people liked a variety of features from all the designs, and the designers noted that the final schematic design would be a combination of these features. They also explained that any draft of the design would need to go through a review meeting with Seattle Public Utilities Department.
The group was somewhat diverse in age and ethnic make up. Though, a broader diversity that exists in the Beacon Hill neighborhood was not entirely represented. Translation services were offered in all outreach material. A request was made for Mandarin language translator, so we hired a translator. A group of elderly Chinese women came, and they sat with the translator.
The workshop was finished by the planned end-time of 8:30. Clean up took approximately 60 minutes. The food included a reduced price platters from Inay’s, and Quetzal. Contributions from the steering committee rounded out the meal. Dishware was provided by the steering committee. Cost - approx $40.
COMMUNITY DESIGN MEETING NUMBER TWO: July 13, 2011
The Friends of Beacon Food Forest hosted the second community design workshop for the DON SAS Grant Phase One Schematic Design on July 13, 2011 at the downstairs meeting room at EL Centro de la Raza Community Center on Beacon Hill.
Summer evening light streamed in the windows and excitement was palpable as the room continued to fill with community members, numbering 70. As people arrived, they were encouraged to sign in enjoy dinner at one of many tables. Each table had a centerpiece of quiz cards devised to inform and connect participants on issues of Food Forests, farming and food security.. Dinner was served to all. The Landscape Architecture Design team, Harrison Design Team facilitated the session.
They presented three different design options displayed on a screen from a projector. Each Jenny Pell and Margaret Harrison explained the designs and their features, educating and giving reasons why a feature was chosen. They answered questions as they arose.
After the slide show, participants were invited to view each of the three designs as they were displayed on separate tables which were covered with blank white paper. People were encouraged to write comments on the paper in response to the designs. BFF Steering Committee members and Designers circulated around the room to answer questions and encourage dialogue. The comment sheets were collected at the end of the meeting and recorded by Chrisitina Olson, member of BFF steering committee. The summary of these comments is attached to this document.
The participants regrouped and an open discussion was held as people shared their impressions and opinions. Many people commented on a desire to see more meandering paths. Neighbors interacted with each other and the designers, sharing experiences and concerns. Notes were taken and added to summary comments. As people shared ideas, it was clear that people liked a variety of features from all the designs, and the designers noted that the final schematic design would be a combination of these features. They also explained that any draft of the design would need to go through a review meeting with Seattle Public Utilities Department.
The group was somewhat diverse in age and ethnic make up. Though, a broader diversity that exists in the Beacon Hill neighborhood was not entirely represented. Translation services were offered in all outreach material. A request was made for Mandarin language translator, so we hired a translator. A group of elderly Chinese women came, and they sat with the translator.
The workshop was finished by the planned end-time of 8:30. Clean up took approximately 60 minutes. The food included a reduced price platters from Inay’s, and Quetzal. Contributions from the steering committee rounded out the meal. Dishware was provided by the steering committee. Cost - approx $40.
Beacon Food Forest
Steering Committee Meeting
July 20, 1011
Attending: Jenny Pell (designer), Glenn H, Jackie C, Adam L, Daniel J, Julie H, Peter L, Christina O, Cheryl W
Purpose: To review 2nd public design meeting and view preliminary concept of a design that incorporates public and steering committee desires. Jenny will work up a final concept to present to the agencies along with presenting a summary of the results of comments on the three designs presented on July 13, 2011.
We agreed the 2nd meeting was terrific, the crowd of 70+ community members far exceeded our expectations. We were encouraged by how engaged folks were around the tables and the many that stayed on to offer additional comments and make suggestions.
We were especially heartened by the small group Chinese women, who were aided by an interpreter.
Jenny confirmed that the third concept, one which uses the entire site, was favored by the attendees. This design incorporates nut and fruit groves, a large meadow, playfield, and community gardening area in addition to p patches in two locations. This design is adaptable to the incremental growth of the Food Forest favored by the crowd. with intensive uses at the south end of the site. We discussed the possibility of a meadow that does not need mowing, with use of native grasses, wildflowers. Maybe as such, the city or the FF could get carbon credits. Another possibility would be to mow wide paths for access. Maybe there would be one mowed meadow (playfield) with benches and a play area. The group needs to decide how to use the site, perhaps 2 acres not being developed (yet). Jenny reiterated, “Value the marginal/use the edges”.
Discussion of zones—can we ensure a spot to commune with nature in an urban area? Indicate such on the plan. Glenn reminded the group of the grant opportunity from Open Spaces/Sacred Places that could fund this. Also, what about a reflexology path.
Natives guild, this was brought up in the comments, perhaps there is grant money to fund this. Native edibles, maybe best in the north area where kids’ space is and is readily accessible to the path to Jefferson Park. Water as a sacred place, reflecting pool, sculpture with water, big bowled basalt rocks that hold water.
How about a sound garden, to mask urban noise? Trellis with words of peace? Consider signage, each culture has a god/goddess of fertility and harvest. Signs explaining traditions add meaning. Birdhouses, bathouses, mason bees. Birdhouses could be great art project for the community, adults and kids working together, artist opportunity.
Discussion then shifted to break down the concept for each zone. Is there a central gathering space besides the shelter at the top of the slope? Do we need more dispersed throughout the site? Maybe one near the south end or the lower central area. Should they interrupt some of the paths? In one area discussed this would require excavation and a hand railing to meet code. Favor dispersing the p patches and integrating them with other features, have a mixture of plot sizes, maybe some 20’ x 20’ where neighboring gardeners could also share a fruit tree (tree-patch). Possibility of having workshops on just how much you can grow in this size if you garden intensively).
Jenny will think about our ideas, wants a copy of all comments forwarded to her (Christina will do). She then asked, what did we like best about the design she brought us tonight—we like the demonstration garden, with the island effect, nut grove area and community gardening area, snack fruits (add some near the Dakota St parking lot), love the big nut trees, berry hedge (discussion of conflict with the paved path and fast bicycle traffic, maybe border the paved path with bark and then berries so pickers would not conflict). Like the utility area up high, so we wheelbarrow downhill! Maybe have 3 shade/picnic pavilions. Move trellises along the edges rather than at the base of the steep hill. Interest in a kids’ parcour with rocks, fragrant plants. Concern for residents in house along south end, give them a peek a boo view into the site. We need to coordinate/inform them of the plans. Talk of getting the eco-building guild involved in the design/build of structures and tool shed.
Talked about the extent, should it me 4-5 acres managed? Three bin compost allowed, but Jenny suggested adding maybe 30 green cones dispersed thru the site, they are rat and raccoon proof.
Daniel strongly suggested putting placeholders for several ponds and other water features on the final concept plan sheet. Maybe indicate all as a “water redistribution system” running throughout the Food Forest.
Finally, we discussed the need to revamp the webpage and the need to find someone to help out. Cheryl has experience and can help.
Glenn confirmed the final public design meeting will be Tuesday, Sept. 20 at the Jefferson Park Community Center in Hasselberg Hall. No kitchen.
Next SteerCo meeting will be mid August and we will meet at the FF site. Food is potluck, bring your own utensils. P Patch person may attend. We’ll be talking about starting work on our management plan.
Raffle of goodness won by Peter and Daniel.
Steering committee Meeting June 2011
Attending: Glenn Herlihy, Adam Lindsey, Melanie Coerver, Briar Bates, Noam Gaster, Jacqueline Cramer, Christina Olson, Peter Lang ,
Agenda:
· Outreach – Discussion included outreach success and strategies, Melanie choose to do some electronic outreach, Noam will do Spanish-speaking businesses and go door to door with Jacquie. Events were named including Beacon Rocks, no one committed to any event, but electronic versions of the flier will be sent to those who want it and they can use to pass out fliers at events.
· July 13 Community Design Meeting: presentation/facilitation techniques; food , and agenda of the July 13 meeting was discussed. We want to begin community input on a management plan. Options must be explored: Farm Together Now by Amy Franceschni was introduced to the group as a compilation of current urban agriculture projects with community management styles; we can explore this.. The Landscape Architect and steering committee members will meet July 7 prior to the July 13 meeting to explore these topics. We discussed options that included interactive drawing on table cloths while people sat at tables and with copies of each design on the table.
· An interactive approach is desired for Facilitation style in the next meeting. Steering committee members wish to mix throughout the meeting instead of staffing tables. The facilitation style must be sensitive to the broad diversity on the hill.
· Food will be served at EL Centro de la raza with each member bringing some item and Jacquie will ask Quetzal and an Asian dish.
· P-Patch was approved to be our 3rd entity.
We will ask the designers what they need next to move forward with the design. We discussed possible ways for the community to vote on design options and design features.
Steering Committee Meeting
July 20, 1011
Attending: Jenny Pell (designer), Glenn H, Jackie C, Adam L, Daniel J, Julie H, Peter L, Christina O, Cheryl W
Purpose: To review 2nd public design meeting and view preliminary concept of a design that incorporates public and steering committee desires. Jenny will work up a final concept to present to the agencies along with presenting a summary of the results of comments on the three designs presented on July 13, 2011.
We agreed the 2nd meeting was terrific, the crowd of 70+ community members far exceeded our expectations. We were encouraged by how engaged folks were around the tables and the many that stayed on to offer additional comments and make suggestions.
We were especially heartened by the small group Chinese women, who were aided by an interpreter.
Jenny confirmed that the third concept, one which uses the entire site, was favored by the attendees. This design incorporates nut and fruit groves, a large meadow, playfield, and community gardening area in addition to p patches in two locations. This design is adaptable to the incremental growth of the Food Forest favored by the crowd. with intensive uses at the south end of the site. We discussed the possibility of a meadow that does not need mowing, with use of native grasses, wildflowers. Maybe as such, the city or the FF could get carbon credits. Another possibility would be to mow wide paths for access. Maybe there would be one mowed meadow (playfield) with benches and a play area. The group needs to decide how to use the site, perhaps 2 acres not being developed (yet). Jenny reiterated, “Value the marginal/use the edges”.
Discussion of zones—can we ensure a spot to commune with nature in an urban area? Indicate such on the plan. Glenn reminded the group of the grant opportunity from Open Spaces/Sacred Places that could fund this. Also, what about a reflexology path.
Natives guild, this was brought up in the comments, perhaps there is grant money to fund this. Native edibles, maybe best in the north area where kids’ space is and is readily accessible to the path to Jefferson Park. Water as a sacred place, reflecting pool, sculpture with water, big bowled basalt rocks that hold water.
How about a sound garden, to mask urban noise? Trellis with words of peace? Consider signage, each culture has a god/goddess of fertility and harvest. Signs explaining traditions add meaning. Birdhouses, bathouses, mason bees. Birdhouses could be great art project for the community, adults and kids working together, artist opportunity.
Discussion then shifted to break down the concept for each zone. Is there a central gathering space besides the shelter at the top of the slope? Do we need more dispersed throughout the site? Maybe one near the south end or the lower central area. Should they interrupt some of the paths? In one area discussed this would require excavation and a hand railing to meet code. Favor dispersing the p patches and integrating them with other features, have a mixture of plot sizes, maybe some 20’ x 20’ where neighboring gardeners could also share a fruit tree (tree-patch). Possibility of having workshops on just how much you can grow in this size if you garden intensively).
Jenny will think about our ideas, wants a copy of all comments forwarded to her (Christina will do). She then asked, what did we like best about the design she brought us tonight—we like the demonstration garden, with the island effect, nut grove area and community gardening area, snack fruits (add some near the Dakota St parking lot), love the big nut trees, berry hedge (discussion of conflict with the paved path and fast bicycle traffic, maybe border the paved path with bark and then berries so pickers would not conflict). Like the utility area up high, so we wheelbarrow downhill! Maybe have 3 shade/picnic pavilions. Move trellises along the edges rather than at the base of the steep hill. Interest in a kids’ parcour with rocks, fragrant plants. Concern for residents in house along south end, give them a peek a boo view into the site. We need to coordinate/inform them of the plans. Talk of getting the eco-building guild involved in the design/build of structures and tool shed.
Talked about the extent, should it me 4-5 acres managed? Three bin compost allowed, but Jenny suggested adding maybe 30 green cones dispersed thru the site, they are rat and raccoon proof.
Daniel strongly suggested putting placeholders for several ponds and other water features on the final concept plan sheet. Maybe indicate all as a “water redistribution system” running throughout the Food Forest.
Finally, we discussed the need to revamp the webpage and the need to find someone to help out. Cheryl has experience and can help.
Glenn confirmed the final public design meeting will be Tuesday, Sept. 20 at the Jefferson Park Community Center in Hasselberg Hall. No kitchen.
Next SteerCo meeting will be mid August and we will meet at the FF site. Food is potluck, bring your own utensils. P Patch person may attend. We’ll be talking about starting work on our management plan.
Raffle of goodness won by Peter and Daniel.
Steering committee Meeting June 2011
Attending: Glenn Herlihy, Adam Lindsey, Melanie Coerver, Briar Bates, Noam Gaster, Jacqueline Cramer, Christina Olson, Peter Lang ,
Agenda:
· Outreach – Discussion included outreach success and strategies, Melanie choose to do some electronic outreach, Noam will do Spanish-speaking businesses and go door to door with Jacquie. Events were named including Beacon Rocks, no one committed to any event, but electronic versions of the flier will be sent to those who want it and they can use to pass out fliers at events.
· July 13 Community Design Meeting: presentation/facilitation techniques; food , and agenda of the July 13 meeting was discussed. We want to begin community input on a management plan. Options must be explored: Farm Together Now by Amy Franceschni was introduced to the group as a compilation of current urban agriculture projects with community management styles; we can explore this.. The Landscape Architect and steering committee members will meet July 7 prior to the July 13 meeting to explore these topics. We discussed options that included interactive drawing on table cloths while people sat at tables and with copies of each design on the table.
· An interactive approach is desired for Facilitation style in the next meeting. Steering committee members wish to mix throughout the meeting instead of staffing tables. The facilitation style must be sensitive to the broad diversity on the hill.
· Food will be served at EL Centro de la raza with each member bringing some item and Jacquie will ask Quetzal and an Asian dish.
· P-Patch was approved to be our 3rd entity.
We will ask the designers what they need next to move forward with the design. We discussed possible ways for the community to vote on design options and design features.
