A grant program sponsored by Davenport-based Big Creek Lumber that gives students and teachers the opportunity to learn through hands-on projects in science, biology, agriculture, carpentry and forestry is continuing in 2026, the company announced in a media release.
The School Garden Grant Program provides schools with garden bed kits made from locally sourced, sustainably harvested redwood lumber. The beds create outdoor classrooms and also showcase the benefits of using a natural material that is durable and sustainable.
Now entering its 10th year, the program has awarded more than 90 grants to schools near Big Creek locations, and 12 more schools will receive the garden beds in 2026.
Big Creek Lumber had informally donated garden beds to local schools for decades; this program formalizes that commitment and makes it available to a wider audience through an annual application process. Applications and eligibility information are available on Big Creek’s website, and can also be picked up at the company’s six retail lumber and building supply yards in Santa Cruz, Watsonville, Half Moon Bay, Vallejo, Paso Robles and Atwater.
“Every spring, it’s such a joy to hand-deliver our School Garden Bed Grants. Watching students’ excitement when a Big Creek truck arrives with their kit never gets old,” marketing director Michelle Webb said in the release.“I’ve been fortunate to join many of these deliveries over the years, and I know the garden spaces created will continue to inspire students for seasons to come. I’m already looking forward to meeting our 2026 recipients.”
Big Creek encourages schools to apply annually, with recipient schools eligible to reapply after two years. Completed applications must be returned to a Big Creek Lumber yard in person by Oct. 31. All eligible schools will be entered in a drawing, and two schools will be selected in the vicinity of each yard at random. The kits will be delivered in the early spring so students can get their gardens planted in time for the full growing season.
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