Torrington commission sets May 10 date for Jigs Donahue food‑forest planting; partners, soil and mulch plans discussed

The Torrington Conservation Commission discussed plans for a food-forest planting at Jigs Donahue (Lewis Park) and agreed on a volunteer event date of Saturday, May 10, organizers said at the March 25 meeting.

Christine Altman, the commission member leading the project update, said the commission has identified three local partners: the community garden group that tends the adjacent plots (with harvested produce donated to Friendly Hands), the conservation district (represented by Annette) and EdAdvance, which the commission expects to help coordinate youth and family outreach and bring attendees.

Altman said the planting plan has been adjusted for shade and site conditions: pawpaws would sit on the north side of the planting area to avoid shading lower plants, with blueberries and currants placed to the south in rows. She said the conservation district had completed soil testing for contaminants and that test results would guide any soil amendments. "Annette with the conservation district... had the soil testing," Altman said during the discussion.

Logistics and materials: commissioners discussed using donated mulch, cardboard barriers and amendments; the conservation district and community-garden volunteers pledged help with mulching and access to water. Public Works has been consulted about mowing and site maintenance, and commission members said they would coordinate placement of a low fence or trellis to reduce dog incursions and protect plantings. Altman said the group will ask local suppliers for mulch donations and check whether donated mulch is dyed before use.

Access and outreach: the commission plans to direct volunteers to a nearby parking area identified in the meeting notes and to ask EdAdvance to handle broader event publicity and family outreach. Commissioners said EdAdvance had offered to bring children and parents and to arrange a food truck and meal vouchers for participating families; organizers would rely on that partner’s outreach in lieu of a broad city mailer.

Timing and follow-up: the commission said it will finalize a materials list and planting plan, confirm porta‑potty access and coordinate with Public Works before the May 10 event. Altman said the commission will meet with Lauren from EdAdvance and follow up with Annette of the conservation district to confirm soil- and mulch-related logistics.