City Council opposes relocation of Herter Community Garden

During this week’s Council meeting, the Council voted to adopt a resolution opposing the proposed relocation of the garden.

Founded in 1976, Herter Community Garden is located along the banks of the Charles River in Allston-Brighton’ Christian A. Herter Park. The garden has served as a vital resource and gathering space for local community members for over 45 years. The garden provides access to organic gardening space for a multigenerational community. This community includes:

older adults
immigrants, and
residents of color from surrounding neighborhoods.

These community members rely on the garden for food security, sociability, and support networks.

On September 29, 2021, the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) announced its intent to remove and relocate the Herter Community Garden. Their intent was to consolidate Herter Park’s existing gardens. Gardners have said relocation is not feasible. Additionally, removal of the garden will result in the loss of 45 years of community labor and organic soil enrichment. The site proposed for the garden's relocation is poorly suited for cultivation.

In opposition to the DCR’s plans, there is a resident-initiated petition that supports the retention of Herter Community Garden in its current location. It has garnered over 2,300 signatures. During this week’s Council meeting, the Council voted to adopt a resolution opposing the proposed relocation of the garden. The Council urges the DCR to both retain Herter Community Garden in its current location and work with stakeholders to determine how best to support the garden’s future.