By CAPA JRC reporter Andrew
The CAPA-MC Gardening Club was founded in August of 2021. Led by students Claire Yu and Vicky Shan, its goal is to generate awareness about how to make environmentally-friendly gardens without the use of chemicals. Using lawn and garden chemicals or pesticides contaminates the soil and nearby water sources, and may even affect animals and humans. When pesticides flow into streams, they eventually end up in the Chesapeake Bay watershed that encompasses 6 states. Over time, the extra chemicals may end up affecting wildlife populations. These lowered populations could lead to long term issues, such as reduction in seafood, lowered tourism and fishing revenue, and polluted water sources.
Gardening is an exercise that helps with physical activity, while also providing a source of stress relief and satisfaction. By participating in the Gardening Club, club members improve their fitness and also their mental health.
The Gardening Club held their first group activity on April 2nd, and plans to grow crops from now until November. Last year, crops were planted from August to November. The produce was donated to CCACC senior citizens. There will also be an event on May 14th, organized by an affiliate of the University of Maryland, where club members will sell some products they have grown. Almost all crops are given to community members in need.
If you wish to join this club, contact capa.gardening@gmail.com.
This article was provided by Chinese American Parents Association Junior Reporter Club (CAPA JRC) with members who interviewed, audio recorded, wrote, translated, and video recorded. CAPA JRC has 25 Montgomery County middle to high school students. They have created a bilingual platform delivering news and serving the community.
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