No GMO's in Burlington Area Community Garden Plots  
Last spring a decision was made by the BACG Advisory Board that genetically modified seeds would not be permitted at any of the sites around the city.  Community Gardeners need to take immediate steps to protect Vermont from being contaminated by genetically engineered crops. Genetic engineering has the potential to irreversible harm the environment.  Not only will genetically engineered crops contaminate neighboring farms including those organic farmers down at the Intervale, but scientist are also concerned that the mutated crops may be damaging the soil.  Many GE crop, such as corn and potatoes, have been engineered to produce poisons and toxins to fight pests.  These toxins may be leaking into the soil killing beneficial soil organism. Genetically engineered foods are poorly studied.  Researchers say there is insufficient studies into the potential allergic  effects and toxicity of genetically engineered foods. Please plan ahead for next season and make sure that you do not purchase genetically engineered seeds or plants for your garden plot.  If plants or seeds are found to be genetically modified, they will be removed at once. To learn more or become more involved visit :   www.gefreevt.org     HELP  SAVE ORGANIC FARMING - JUST SAY NO TO GMO'S !

Closing Procedures
Cleaning up at the end of the season isn't as much fun as getting ready in the spring but it is very important that everyone helps out and cleans up their plot.  To help keep garden registration fees down, plots need to be cleared of all plant material, string, stakes, plastic, rock and any other items that were utilized during the summer. Follow these quick tricks for easy clean up:
•         Begin pulling up dead plants now. Take your peas down if you have not already. 
•         Any plant not producing  anymore should be removed. Take extra produce to the food shelf. All plots must be cleared out BEFORE the Community Work Day on October 15.

BACG Dedicated Capital Fund
Gardeners now have the opportunity to donate money directly to Burlington Area Community Gardens.  A dedicated capital fund has been created just for BACG.  That means every penny donated to the fund will be used to help maintain garden sites around the city.  This money can only be used for capital improvements to the site such as water system enhancements, compost, fencing,, tool sheds and other project that benefit everyone in the garden.  The money can not be used to pay for  staffing or events.  What better donation can you make this year then one that will improve the gardens for everyone.  Send checks to: BACG CAPITAL FUND, Burlington Parks and Rec, 645 Pine Street, Suite B, Burlington, Vermont 05401.  Or call 863-0420 for more information.