Community Garden at Escarte Park Educates El Paso Residents on Backyard Gardening

In the heart of El Paso, a vibrant community gathering unfolded at Escarte Park, where the echoes of a bygone racing era met the fresh promise of urban gardening. As the sun cast a warm glow over the park, local enthusiasts reminisced about the historic Evans Oval racetrack, a landmark that once drew crowds from far and wide. Built in 1939 by Walter Gold, the racetrack was a hub of excitement, where families and fans came together to celebrate the thrill of speed.

“Every single time you have a speedway that develops on the outskirts of a city, eventually the city is going to catch up with it,” one local historian reflected, highlighting the inevitable transformation of the area. The racetrack, once a bustling center of activity, has since given way to a serene golf course, yet its legacy remains a vital part of El Paso's history. “It was a very vital part of the city,” he added, urging the community to remember the past as they enjoy the present.

Transitioning from the nostalgia of racing to the cultivation of community, the park also features a teaching and demonstration garden, led by Eduardo Rascone. This nonprofit initiative aims to empower residents to grow their own produce, fostering a sense of sustainability and connection to the land. “This is basically to teach the community how they can actually have their own backyard garden,” Eduardo explained, showcasing vibrant crops like brussels sprouts and spinach, all grown without pesticides.

As Eduardo guided visitors through the garden, he emphasized the importance of understanding local growing conditions and the potential for urban agriculture in El Paso. “El Paso can offer you a lot of opportunity in terms of growing conditions,” he encouraged, inviting everyone to explore the joys of gardening.

The juxtaposition of the racetrack's thrilling past and the garden's hopeful future paints a picture of a community that honors its history while nurturing new growth. As residents gather in Escarte Park, they not only celebrate what once was but also cultivate what can be, reminding us all of the rich tapestry of life that continues to unfold in El Paso.