Volunteers needed for the CHOW Orchard Planting Day

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Help Plant the CHOW Fruit Tree Orchard


Last Update: 7/14 12:29 pm

From Broome County Council of Churches:
Now that CHOW (Community Hunger Outreach Warehouse) of the Broome County Council of Churches has won an internet-voting contest for a free fruit tree orchard, it’s nearing time to do the actual planting of some 45 fruit trees.


This community event will take place on Sunday, August 22, at the CHOW Farm on River Boulevard in Conklin from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. River Boulevard is off Conklin Road towards the Susquehanna River.


“We need you, the community, to help us plant these trees and celebrate with us at the same time,” said Deacon Edward Blaine, CHOW program director. “Bring your pick or shovel, dig and plant, hand out refreshments, eat with us, learn about orchards and be a part of the excitement.”


The prize of a free orchard came about through an internet-voting contest last Spring and is sponsored by The Communities Take Root program, and supported by Edy’s Fruit Bars and the Fruit Tree Planting Foundation. Edy’s will provide fruit bars to everyone and the Council of Churches will provide lunch.


The program on August 22 consists of the following:

--11 to 11:45 a.m., introductions and planting demonstrations

--11:45 a.m. to 3 p.m., break into groups to plant the orchard (bring your pick or shovel; otherwise the Council will have a limited supply of tools)

--3 to 4 p.m., workshop on fruit tree after care, if enough volunteers sign up for this session.


When volunteers fill out the Volunteer Form, let the Council know if 1) you will bring your own tools, and 2) whether you will be staying for the workshop at 3 p.m.

To volunteer, go to www.broomecouncil.net/volunteer.asp and fill out the Volunteer Form. Or you can volunteer by calling the Council of Churches at 724-9130 Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (2 p.m. on Friday).

“You helped us win this orchard with all your votes,” said Deacon Blaine. “Now you can help us plant it enabling us to provide even more healthy food for the hungry.”

The CHOW Farm and Orchard is on flood-plain land; the Town of Conklin is leasing seven acres of land to CHOW at a very minimal price. Half an acre will be used for the orchard tree planting.

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