City ponders creating community orchard

Mt. Pleasant’s community garden last year was deemed a success, with 15 plots cultivated by 14 city residents.

There wasn’t a waiting list, but if more city residents want to get involved this year, there’s room.

“Overall, I think it was very successful,” said Mt. Pleasant Parks and Recreation Director Phil Biscorner at Monday’s city commission meeting. “We had a few hiccups but that’s to be expected.”

Now, Biscorner is looking into adding a community orchard at Horizon Park after getting input from residents.

A community orchard would be an educational tool, a source of locally produced fruit and a gathering place for the community in alignment with the city’s sustainability goals, Biscorner said in a memo to City Manager Aaron Desentz.

“The project aims to reduce environmental impact, enhance community resilience, and promote sustainable practices,” Bisorner said.

Benefits of a community orchard include enhancement of aesthetic appeal of the park and surrounding neighborhoods on the east side of the city; providing fresh, locally grown fruit for park visitors and encouraging fruit tree cultivation; supporting pollinator habitat; and fostering community stewardship and volunteerism, promoting long-term care and sustainability, Biscorner said.

If the proposal comes to fruition, the city would start with no more than six low-maintenance varieties like apples to ensure success and sustainability, according to Biscorner.

“The proposed orchard will feature varieties selected for their ease of maintenance, resilience to pests and diseases, and successful cultivation in the area, Biscorner said.