Eleven-year-old Bryan Crosby, a fifth grader at Oak Park Elementary School, said he likes being able to come out to the garden and use his hands to plant things.

“I like digging things and being able to plant others,” he said. “I also like finding rocks and old things.

Jahmauri Campbell, also a student at Oak Park, said he learned a lot from Tuesday’s activity.

“I learned a lot from just being able to do to water the oil, plant the trees and water them,” Campbell said. “I like it all. We had fun.”

Councilwoman Felecia Breland praised those helping to enhance the area.

“This will improve the environment of Ward Seven and enhance the quality of life,” Breland said. The trees will provide a variety of benefits to the community and citizens.”

Milton said once the garden is complete, it will house the Howard Greenhouse, which will be a fully equipped greenhouse. It will also include a set of sculptures created by the museum and the students participating in the project and a center brick walkway with personalized brick pavers.

Also, tucked away in the garden will be two, 3-row bleachers, each bleacher with a seating capacity of 30 students.

A broad iron fence was recently installed around the facility in October.

Milton said native trees and shrubs will be planted to line the walkway where there will be seating added for resting and reading.

In a separate garden, the students will plant and grow vegetables while learning the benefits of healthy eating habits.

Milton said the Outdoor Classroom Garden will offer an opportunity for families to come together on weekends to work with their children and show their support of the project being developed for the community.

The local Continental Societies conducted a groundbreaking ceremony at the property in March. Since then, the groundwork and preparation work had to be conducted.

Milton said the mission of the group is to create environments within our communities that empowers children to have access to quality and appropriate opportunities to reach their optimal potential.

Prior to the installation of the fence, Jones County donated numerous loads of dirt to be used to build up the lot where the garden is being located.