1) We propose to repair four of our raised beds that had crop failures in 2011, due to immature compost (made by a certified composter) being added to the beds. We propose to remake the beds, adding two inches of fresh compost from a company which has a reputation for providing a quality, fully-matured product. In addition, we propose to add a two-inch layer of compost to the three new community plots that were developed in 2011; one plot was used to grow squash, another was used to grow pumpkins, and the newest plot was tilled and cover-cropped for use as a squash patch in 2012 to allow for crop rotation. Support is requested to add compost to all of our newly-developed plots and for necessary soil tests. 2) In the spring of 2011 the Garden ordered topsoil, compost and sand mixture for four new garden beds and the community squash patch. It soon became apparent that the compost included in the mix was not of a high quality (though it was ordered from a certified compost producer), and plants began to fail. The Garden received some compensation for the poor soil, and every effort was made to salvage crops that were failing, but it is clear that further investment is needed to build up the soil and bring it up to par with the soil quality of the older beds. Soil tests were done on old beds and all new projects, and results will determine the appropriate course of action. It has been determined that, at a minimum, the new projects will need an application of at least 12.35 cubic yards of compost. The Community Alliance Church, one of the primary financial donors to the Garden, felt the need to rein in expenses for all of its community projects and decreased the amount of financial support to the Garden in 2011. Although donations of land, mowing and fencing have been steadfast, financial support has fluctuated, depending on the overall financial picture of the hundred-member Church. The Church has committed to supporting the Garden in the coming year, but in light of the variability of financial support, the Garden Leadership Team decided to raise plot fees for the 2012 season to $20 for returning gardeners and $35 for new gardeners. The financial section reflects a conservative estimate for revenue generated by plot fees, as registration is not yet complete; to date, thirteen out of twenty gardeners have committed to returning but have not yet secured their return with payment. 3) The Community Alliance Church, which has supported the Hinesburg Food Shelf for many years, saw the Garden as an extension of that mission. The Garden was established in 2008 on land donated by the Church because members perceived a community need for fresh, wholesome food for low income families. For some, that food might be provided by offering garden plots—individuals can have the pleasure of growing their own organic produce. It has also been possible to support the Food Shelf and supply other families through donating excess produce from the garden; 338 pounds of produce were donated in 2010. 4) In late September, winter rye will be planted in the 2011 squash patch; it will overwinter and be tilled in in the spring. The Garden is open for planting year-round, but most gardeners will begin in early spring. Traditionally, there has been a “garden opening” work day in early spring, and that is the point when most resources would be used (e.g., straw, compost, etc.). One round of soil testing was recently completed, and tests will be repeated in the spring, due to the soil complications we experienced this growing season.