Peeking around the corner of Myrtle Avenue you discover an urban oasis. This is Know Waste Lands Community Garden. Established in 2014 Know Waste Lands is a testament to community action. It demonstrates local solutions for social and ecological challenges.
Know Waste Lands thrives in Bushwick Brooklyn. It is more than just a garden. It is a compost site and wildlife haven. The garden embodies sustainable practices and habitat restoration.
Let’s step back in time to January 2013. BK ROT a youth-run composting service began a campaign. They sought community support for a compost site and wildlife garden. For almost two years they worked tirelessly.
Their efforts paid off. With the help of the City Council Brooklyn Community Board 4 596 Acres and local residents the lots were transferred to the NYC Parks Department. This shows what collective action can achieve.
In December 2014 April 2015 and June 2020 agreements were signed with NYC Parks GreenThumb. Know Waste Lands was officially recognized. Since then residents have volunteered to maintain the space. Their dedication keeps this garden alive.
Know Waste Lands operates in partnership with BK ROT. BK ROT is a non-profit organization. They create compost on site. BK ROT is New York City’s first community-supported bike-powered food waste hauling and composting service.
You might wonder how Know Waste Lands tackles waste reduction. They encourage composting food scraps. Residents can reduce household waste. This is achieved by composting organic scraps with BK ROT. It is a practical step towards sustainability.
Know Waste Lands is located on Myrtle Avenue DeKalb Avenue and Cedar Street. You can find it at 1278 Myrtle Avenue Brooklyn NY 11221 or 1309 DeKalb Avenue Brooklyn NY 11221. The garden is open to the public at certain times. Note that it’s closed during the winter season.
Want to get involved? Know Waste Lands welcomes volunteers. You can join their email list. This way you will hear about volunteer opportunities. Consider filling out the volunteer interest form.
Know Waste Lands stands as a reminder. It highlights what a community can achieve together. It is a space for envisioning a better future. It enacts solutions for a greener city. It demonstrates the power of sustainable practices. It fosters habitat restoration. It provides the public with open hours.