Volunteers tidy up in the pollinator garden at Groundwork Somerville’s South Street Farm. —Photos by Molly Rains

By Molly Rains

Last Saturday at Groundwork Somerville’s South Street Farm, over 40 volunteers gathered to get their hands dirty in celebration of Earth Day. Volunteers weeded, raked, clipped invasive species, and picked up trash, helping to prepare the property for what the Groundwork team expects to be a busy and productive growing season.

Last year, according to Executive Director Alex Lennon-Simon, Groundwork Somerville produced a full metric ton of produce for distribution at reduced cost to Somerville residents. This year, they hope to produce even more. The South Street Farm, which boasts several raised beds, pollinator gardens, and a greenhouse, will be an essential part of that effort. The nonprofit also grows produce at other locations, including vegetable gardens at Somerville’s public elementary and middle schools.

Raised beds ready for a busy growing season.

Groundwork Somerville was founded in 2000 with the mission to “cultivate the next generation of environmental leaders to grow a greener and more equitable Somerville.” The organization’s involvement with Somerville youth includes the school garden program as well as a seasonal crew of Somerville teens, who produce food for their community while connecting with their natural surroundings. The produce the team harvests will be distributed to Somerville residents via the Mobile Farmers’ Market. This way, said Lennon-Simon, fresh produce can “get to the people who need it,” bypassing the supply-chain issues and prohibitive costs that can make a fresh and nutritious diet inaccessible to many.

As the growing season approaches, Groundwork Somerville is gearing up. “We’re looking for some more space,” says Lennon-Simon; “the goal is to grow more.” In addition to farming, future Groundwork events include more volunteer opportunities like last Saturday’s cleanup, as well as a summer live music series, comedy night, and trivia, all at Groundwork properties. The freshly tidied farm at 138 South St. is open to the public. You can also stay up to date with information on events, getting involved, or making a donation at the Groundwork Somerville website: https://groundworksomerville.org.

Volunteers raked, weeded, and removed debris along streets near South Street Farm on Saturday.