PORT HURON, Mich. – A St. Clair County community has launched a new pilot program to plant a variety of trees to make free fruit available to residents.
Port Huron officials announced two “Edible Parks,” are being installed under this initiative, and fruit trees will be planted on vacant city lots.
“The idea that a family can walk across the street from Cleveland Elementary on the way home and readily grab a fresh pear, peach or apple is fantastic,” said Port Huron City Manager James Freed. “This is a simple, common sense, and low-cost initiative aimed at activating public spaces and land in a new way.”
The first “Edible Park” was put in the 3100 block of 28th Street, across from Cleveland Elementary School. Nine trees were planted, including Bartlett Pear, Honeycrisp Apple and Redhaven Peach trees.
A second installation of trees will be planted near Garfield Elementary School in the spring of 2025.
“We continuously look for ways to bring value to public land located within our beautiful neighborhoods,” Freed said. “This is a simple idea that just makes sense. If, over the next two to three years, these pilot locations work well we will expand the concept to additional sites throughout the city. We really want every kid in town to have quick access to quality fruits and vegetables.”
