Garden Committees

The real work at the heart of Hidden Alley Ranch happens in committees. Each committee has a leader who collaboratively sets agendas and calls meetings. The committee structure is led by the Organizing Committee, but each one has a fair amount of autonomy to decide their priorities for the year and execute them. Some committees are organized to maintain collectively managed areas of the garden, while others fulfill basic functions such as Infrastructure or Compost.

Committees currently include: Organizing, Wild Spaces, Sprawling Garden, Herb Bed, Cut Flowers, Orchard/Permaculture, Sweet Potato, Infrastructure & Design, & Compost.

Each gardener commits to serving on one or more committees, depending on their interests and skills.

Organizing Committee

This group makes decisions about yearly updates to Garden Guidelines, new policies, grants, and has the final word on Garden Membership.

Wild Spaces Committee

This committee has transformed the wooded area from mostly honeysuckle and winter creeper to a host of native trees and shady understory plants. They have planted two large sunny berms and created an adventure trail for children. They also maintain the sunny pollinator bed in the NE corner, which is a Monarch Waystation. Look out for beautiful metal tags throughout the garden identifying natives!

Orchard/Permaculture

This committee planted the Orchard in the NW corner of the garden, including peaches, pears, Asian pears, pecan, and much more (supported by Seed St. Louis’ Giving Grove Grant). They also have planted trees and bushes around the edge and woody areas of the garden, with species such as fig, kiwi, grapes, jujubes, and a line of espaliered apples. They prune and continue to add fruit varieties yearly.