A Bigfork Community Health Needs Assessment determined that obesity was the most serious physical health concern for the community. A group of citizens met and proposed various ideas to address the concern. One proposal was to acquaint children with good gardening practices and eating healthy foods that were grown locally with the hope of instilling a love for gardening, which could continue throughout their lives. They built garden beds along a fence, which they used as a trellis to grow cucumbers, peas and morning glories. They built six 4’x5′ raised garden beds which contained vegetables (scarlet runner beans, bush beans, potatoes, squash, and tomatoes), flowers (marigolds, bachelor buttons, and zinnias) and blueberries. They also planted three apple trees. The students participated in the final decision of what was to be grown. The Bigfork School Summer Learning Academy, as well as summer programs in Bigfork, led by North Homes children & Family Services, also used the garden for various educational projects throughout the summer.

Student learning goals included an appreciation of where food comes from, importance of plant science, ecology and the environment, how plants grow, and the benefits of healthy eating. A successful partnership among students, teachers, parents, and community volunteers ensure the continuity of the garden in the years ahead. Having a voice in the planning and execution of the project resulted in their ongoing commitment to the project.