GARDENERS MEET AT THE FAIRBANK MUSEUM AND PLANETARIUM

Pumpkins Flower Arrangement adorned the tables

The Fall Meeting of the Federated Garden Clubs of Vermont was held at the Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium in St Johnsbury.

The Garden Club member gathering brought together plant and flower enthusiasts who play a crucial role in helping to preserve the scenic beauty in communities across Vermont. The sixteen (16) garden clubs in Vermont are the heart of horticulture and conservation who engage in efforts of maintenance of local gardens such as the Vermont Garden Park (Butterfly, Grandma and Grandma Gardens), Burlington Garden Club; Old Stone House and North Country Hospital, Four Seasons Garden Club in Newport; Taylor Park, St Albans Garden Club; Fairbanks Museum, Seed and Weed Garden Club and public garden areas in Barre, Granite Center Garden Club. These North District clubs were the host for the Fall Meeting.

Doris Van Mullen, President of the Federated Garden Clubs of Vermont, stated garden clubs, are rooted in a passion to enhance and protect local landscapes through efforts of pollinator gardens, children’s gardens, vegetable gardens and planting of trees fostering sustainable living and environmental stewardship.

All of the Vermont Garden Clubs bring color to their community with their beautification projects spearheaded by their garden activities. Local Club Presidents understand the importance of their pivotal role in environmental education. Through workshops, lectures and community outreach programs, they raise awareness about the importance of conservation and empower individuals to contribute to the conservation efforts within their own communities.

The garden club members enjoyed and explored the museum on their visit. Damon Cawley, Director of Visitor Experience, told the group about the over 30,000 objects from eclectic permanent collection, including natural science specimens, historical artifacts, archival photographs and documents, and ethnological treasures which “Balances Science and Wonder”.

Facing the challenges of urbanization and environmental change, the role of garden clubs in preserving the character and scenic beauty of our communities becomes ever more vital.