From seed libraries to food forests: Austell's year one wins and what's up next
Something remarkable has been quietly taking root in Austell. Over the past year, a coalition of growers, educators, nonprofit partners, city representatives, and neighbors has been turning a bold community vision into tangible reality.…and the results are worth celebrating.
The City of Austell is proud to announce the completion of Year One of its Local Food System Plan, a community-driven strategy adopted in 2024 and made possible by a $75,000 grant from Food Well Alliance, matched by in-kind support from the City. Austell is one of only seven cities in the region selected for this program, a recognition of the city's commitment to health equity and community-driven growth.
Year One Highlights
Inviting Community Garden: The Terrell Community Garden now features a completed walking trail, evening lighting, picnic tables, withADA-accessible raised beds.
Seed Library: A Community Seed Library is now open at The Alchemist Den, putting growing power directly in neighbors' hands.
Community Composting: Two community compost drop-off sites are active through Compost Cowboys/Beyond Zero Waste, with a third on the way.
Environmental Ed in Schools: My Green Earth partnered with Garrett Middle School to lead 8th graders on nature hikes and restore the school's courtyard garden. Austell Elementary is next.
Community workshops: A "Grow Where You Are" event introduced residents to soil health, native plants, and edible species like wild blueberry, persimmon, river cane, and pawpaws.
Seniors included: True Alchemy Gardens expanded workshops to ensure long-held growing knowledge reaches — and is shared across — all generations.
"Austell is one of only seven cities selected for Food Well Alliance's Local Food System Plan program — a partnership with the Atlanta Regional Commission that recognizes Austell's commitment to health equity and community-driven growth."
Now, come celebrate with us
The best way to mark a year of progress? Gather in the very green spaces we've been building together. Join the City of Austell and the Local Food & Agriculture Task Force for the First Annual Hummingbird Festival, a free, family-friendly afternoon celebrating community, nature, and the beauty of Austell.
First Annual Hummingbird Festival
Saturday, June 13, 2026 · 2–5pm
Terrell Community Garden & Food Forest, Austell, GA
Free and open to all
What to expect:
Explore an old-growth forest along Sweetwater Creek
Discover edible plants like pawpaws growing in the food forest
Browse local vendors
Enjoy kids' activities
Get hands-on with free gardening workshops
Watch and taste seasonal chef demonstrations
RSVP today using the link below!