Page 35 - School Garden Development Guide - 4th Edition

Choosing a Garden Location (SharePoint - Tab 3)
1. Where will the garden be on your campus?
• Identify two or three potential locations for your garden.
• Work with your school technology representative to
create an aerial view of these locations using Google
Earth.
• Be sure to clearly mark these locations on the map.
2. Is the site ADA accessible?
3. Contact your MPO Area Manager for guidance, support and
site approval.

ADA Accessibility
Remember, the District requires that all gardens that are used as
educational tools be accessible to all students. Gardens that are
not ADA accessible will not be approved.
• Is there a sidewalk around the space or ADA acceptable
mulch (also referred to as engineered wood fiber)?
• How many tall raised garden beds will you have?

Generally speaking, ADA access requires...
• Plants within the allowable reach range, 18 inches minimum
to 40 inches maximum.
• A paved path adjacent to at least one side of the planting area.
(Plain mulch paths, stepping stone paths, and other paths
that do not offer a stable, firm, slip resistant surface are not
accessible. It may be possible to provide a “balloon wheel”
wheelchair to provide accessibility when the cost of a paved
path is prohibitive. Providing this accommodation may only
be possible when a student with these types of needs attends
your school.)
• All students must have the same opportunity to either observe
or participate in garden activities and it is our responsibility to
ensure this access.

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