Ben Mattson cuts a fence post in McCormick Gardens, a community plot across from the Ecology Center. “I just came to give it a look and help my parents,” said Ben, out with mom Caroline Pittman and dad Robert Mattson. “I secretly don’t mind it,” said Ben. The parents are clearing the 34-by-14-foot plot and mending structures, like the fence. Starting next week, they plan to plant tomatoes, broccoli, kale and cucumbers for themselves and flowers for bees. They’re part of a group that won the plot in a lottery earlier this month. Evanston offers 200 gardens at four sites. “This lets them spend time doing something they really love,” said Ben. “And keeps us out of trouble,” added Bob. (Photo by Richard Cahan)

Richard Cahan

Richard Cahan takes photos for the Evanston RoundTable. He also is publisher of CityFiles Press, a small but mighty media company that believes in the power of words and pictures. You can reach him at...

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  1. While 200 is great, with a waiting list, how about providing for 400?

    “But where?”

    In parks, so it’s more accessible and visible for people to use and promote community gardens at the same time.

    Reply