Los Angeles County has recently asked the community garden in front of the Malibu Labor Exchange to be dismantled. Malibu takes pride in preserving its bucolic character and its natural beauty. However, the garden organizers did not apply to the county for necessary permits or obtain insurance for liability. It was unclear who would be accountable for the possible injuries or environmental impact of runoff from the garden. Clearly, this is problematic. Members of the city council are quoted to support a public garden, but only as long as it is properly maintained and in compliance with the LA county regulations. If we are going to have a community garden, we have to do this the right way.
That’s where the Cornucopia Foundation steps in. The Cornucopia Foundation is offering space for a garden at their Environmental Learning Center. This site already has a system of irrigation, organic soil, and insurance for liability. Students ranging from kindergarten through college regularly attend classes at the Environmental Learning Center where the garden would be placed. The ELC is already known as an outdoor environmental center in Malibu where everyone is welcome. The Cornucopia Foundation will supply the garden and monitor the interest of the residents. If Cornucopia sees that there is enough commitment to a community garden, they will work with the city to find a more adequate space for growth in the future. This garden, like any other garden or business, will have to start small. You plant a seed and watch it grow. If you are interested, please contact the Cornucopia Foundation on Facebook or call 310.428.4262.
Debra Bianco