Ironwood micro gardens foster rehabilitation

October 10, 2024

Ironwood State Prison facility micro gardens are making a difference for staff and the incarcerated population.

Incarcerated persons are proudly showing off the fruits of team efforts with Ironwood State Prison’s facility micro gardens.

Embracing the normalization pillar of the California Model, many of the incarcerated population have turned to gardening on the facility recreational yards.

The micro garden project, which began in June, started as an idea pitched to prison management by the population. Beautifying the institution and normalizing the environment contributes to overall wellness for staff as well as the incarcerated population. According to the gardening participants, the hobby reduces stress.

Overall, the micro gardens teach horticulture skills, instill responsibility, and offer a sense of accomplishment. As a whole, these contribute to easing their reentry into society after incarceration.

Submitted by Lt. C. Whalen