Garden Rangers at Madison Public Library

Garden Rangers is a recurring youth program that spans the spring, summer, and autumn seasons. During this program, students learn about nature, build friendships, and acquire practical gardening knowledge. 
 
Once a month, grade-school students gather at the Madison Public Library for a short classroom lesson planned and taught by local Master Gardeners. Lessons focus on garden safety, plant care, and especially the importance of pollinator species for a successful garden and healthy environment. Occasionally, community partners, such as the Beekeepers group or guest Master Gardeners, are brought in to teach a lesson in their area of expertise. 

Class is followed by time in the garden, in which students tend to the garden beds and apply what they’ve just learned in a guided activity. Under the direction of librarians and volunteers, they plant, water, weed, and harvest. This past April, students planted hot-season crops such as cucumbers, zucchini, and squash in preparation for autumn, which they will be allowed to take home after harvest! 
 
The intention of the Garden Rangers program goes beyond teaching gardening skills. As mentioned, it seeks to educate children on the importance of the environment and sustainable gardening practices. Classroom lessons and time in the garden often focus on teaching the importance of pollinators in the environment and the garden. In the past, Master gardeners have brought in pollinator-friendly plants the children planted to attract the Alabama state bug, 
the Monarch Butterfly. 
 
The program also seeks to build confidence and curiosity as children learn, work, and improve their knowledge and skills. Though chaperoned, children are responsible for monthly garden upkeep and organization and cleaning of gardening tools, allowing them to explore and learn in their own time with children their age. Together, they work as a team to complete their monthly tasks, teaching them responsibility, teamwork, and communication skills. 
 
Garden Rangers is a backyard adventure for kids to spend the afternoon learning and honing skills in a vibrant, fun-filled environment. With no intentions to stop anytime soon, Madison Public Library is always looking to add to its garden to expand opportunities for the Garden Rangers!