A federal agency will recognize efforts of three local organizations during an event Monday morning in Houston.
USDA Rural Development is recognizing a trio of programs that it has recently assisted.
At 10 a.m., officials will be at the Houston Farmers Market at Lone Star Plaza. Rural Development recently funded shades for the copper pavilion used by the market and for improvements to aid the development of the Lone Star Plaza Annex that will be used by vendors. Downtown Houston Inc. secured the funding.
At 10:30 a.m., Houston Rural Fire Association will be recognized following the purchase of rescue equipment through a matching grant.
At 11 a.m., a new era in growing at the Texas County Garden at the Texas County Justice Center will be recognized. Through the efforts of Downtown Houston Inc., a high tunnel to expand the growing season will soon be erected. Texas County Master Gardeners work with inmates and the Texas County Sheriff’s Department to raise produce that is used in the jail and to help others.
The high tunnel will provide produce 10 months of the year. The extra produce that cannot be consumed timely will be preserved. The vegetables provide healthy meals to inmates, and it estimated about $10,000 has been saved on the good budget. In addition, the program provides rehabilitation and education to inmates. The Texas County Commission and Sheriff James Sigman provided funding for a match component of the grant.
Construction of the 30 x 72 foot high tunnel will come from community volunteers and inmates. Texas County Master Gardeners and Sigman will coordinate it.