Deep Ellum Urban Gardens (DUG), the small community garden that greets travelers from the west when they arrive in Deep Ellum, is now taking applications for 4-by-4-foot garden plots. This project, which is part of the Deep Ellum Community Association, was funded with the help of the local community though a CrowdTilt campaign in 2011.
The goal of DUG has always been to provide the neighborhood, both residents and restaurants, with the opportunity to grow their own food, while at the same time fostering a strong sense of community -- not to mention the many positive health affects from the physical labor of gardening.
As the gardens are prepared for the spring planting season, DUG is taking applications for plots. There are obviously a limited number of spots, which are allocated based on several different factors, like residency and volunteer hours. If you don't get a plot the first time you apply, there's a waiting list.
"A good applicant lives in the Deep Ellum, downtown or farmers market neighborhoods," said Kelly Clemons with DUG, "and they need to be willing to be part of a healthy community of volunteers that take pride in this project and their plots."
Clemons said applicants also need to embrace organic gardening practices.
The plots cost $75 per year. Check this website for an application.