It took longer than expected and wished for, but finally the project plan was ready to be delivered. Because of the difficulties encountered during the process (particularly the idea of the orchard being participatory, cared for by a community and, not just a plantation of trees by the municipality) it was clear that the project plan had to be more than a drawing and a wish list of tree varieties and materials, but a document covering issues from plantation process, choice of plants, managing and care of the orchard, considerations on the establishment of an association to maintain and organize activities around the orchard to ensure the participation at all times of the community, in short, a document that could translate the findings of the research process and explain the importance of the educational aspect of the project.
In order to do this, we first made a survey of existing trees and shrubs in the park, we studied the previous design of the park, we spoke to several people of different areas, we called for public meetings and discussions, we spoke to visitors of the park, with the parish council, with an agronomist responsible for the maintenance of the park, we studied trees interactions and needs and studied all we could.
So, the depth and scope of the project plan are much wider and consistent then the first drafts, not only in terms of design and its adaptability to the place, its richness in species varieties and their interrelation (the study of biodiversity increase, habitat creation and attraction of predators for possible pests), the aesthetic integration and improvement of the already existent in the site, but also because it has become more than an orchard as a place of gathering to learn about food and sustainability, but also to learn how to grow as a community.
The project is divided in 5 chapters:
I- Introduction to the project
II- Technical description
III-Specifications/ Terms of reference
IV-Budget
V- Program of Activities
VI-Design
So, the depth and scope of the project plan are much wider and consistent then the first drafts, not only in terms of design and its adaptability to the place, its richness in species varieties and their interrelation (the study of biodiversity increase, habitat creation and attraction of predators for possible pests), the aesthetic integration and improvement of the already existent in the site, but also because it has become more than an orchard as a place of gathering to learn about food and sustainability, but also to learn how to grow as a community.
The project is divided in 5 chapters:
I- Introduction to the project
II- Technical description
III-Specifications/ Terms of reference
IV-Budget
V- Program of Activities
VI-Design
We had a final meeting before the trip to Warsaw, and then we delivered our project plan to different departments of the Municipality. Now we're waiting for some reaction. Last news we had was that the different departments are going to meet, but it is not granted that the city will use either our design or our program. Anyway, we will not step aside easily!