After multiple weather and logistical setbacks and rescheduled work dates, ALCC volunteers were finally able to complete their Day of Service project at Arvada West High School on November 14. Thirteen volunteers completed the project begun last spring, when volunteers built the raised beds at Diggable Designs Landscape Construction's shop.

The November workday included placing nine raised beds, bringing irrigation to each bed, and installing Netafim irrigation, which the team felt would be more durable over time than a standard drip system.

Back in the spring, an Arrowhead Landscape Services team worked with Jefferson County Schools grounds team to finalize the irrigation work. All irrigation materials and the lumber and hardware to construct the beds were donated by DBC Irrigation Supply. The Jefferson County grounds team installed a valve last spring, and volunteers in November completed the installation.

While the Landscape Career Pathways program instructor position is currently vacant, Arvada West principal Geree Santarelli has confirmed her commitment to finding another qualified teacher to resume the program in fall 2020. The raised beds are now ready for horticulture students, and veggies they grow will also be used in the school's culinary program.

Other donations to the effort were made by LL Johnson Distributing Company of a Toro Dingo and Mud Buggy with operator Leo Degenstein. Renewable Fiber donated planter's mix for the beds; coincidentally the delivery driver, Allan McClelland, is a graduate of Arvada West High School.

See the full list of companies and volunteers who supported the project.

The school generously provided lunch for the volunteers. The security team and grounds manager Mensur Hadzic were very helpful throughout the project. They facilitated several pre-work site visits and were helpful on the workday.

To learn more about the spring efforts for this project, see the story in the July/August issue of Colorado Green.

Read more in this issue of Colorado Green NOW:
Colorado proposes new overtime and minimum pay standards
Keep your crew safe on the road this winter
Colorado Springs water waste ordinance goes to city council for approval
Colorado shows up for November 13 H-2B fly-in