We designed this project in Spring/Summer 2026 and plan to implement it in Fall 2026/Winter 2027. WE NEED YOUR HELP. Public schools across the country are historically underfunded and even moreso now.

A garden design projects like this was only possible because of the Portland Clean Energy Fund and its distribution of $10,000 each year to all middle and highschools in Portland for climate justice/resilence projects.

Schools and associated student groups/advisors have discretion how to use said funds.

*Kyle talking* I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to work with any school or student group in an environmental education capacity. I truly believe that the stronger our connection to the land, the more we recognize its value, care for it, and find ourselves enriched by the relationship.

Public space and places of education tell a story. Where an abundant apple tree resides, also resides the story of the person who planted it. Someone at some time said I value food here enough to use some of my most precious time to plant this tree of which I may not bear the fruit.

It is projects like these that establish a new normal. Shifting our baseline. When implemented, students at Ockley Green will have an innovative ecologically minded garden serving to increase access to nature based education, and create a place of gathering. This space is soon to host the return of wildlife and will grow ever abundant with edible foods as time passes.

It is a magical thing to teach and be taught. What an amazing opportunity for it to happen in a native and edible school yard.