Inmates at correctional facilities across the state are gaining hands-on experience in agriculture and horticulture through a statewide garden initiative.
Participants are cultivating over 40 types of crops. The list includes tomatoes, peppers, okra, peas, watermelons, blueberries, and herbs. Once harvested, the produce goes directly to facility kitchens and supports meal incentive programs for inmates.
At Riverbend Correctional Center, staff report a harvest of 1,600 pounds of squash this season. Workers are now picking sweet corn, with watermelons and cantaloupes expected to be ready later this summer.
Central Valley Correctional Complex is adding 19 new garden plots. These include an outdoor classroom, herb garden, and greenhouse to expand learning opportunities and production.
The Magnolia Women’s Correctional Facility is now growing 13 different fruits and vegetables. Okra is the top-yielding crop at that site.
Southern Pines Correctional Center has reported a harvest of 19,816 pounds of blueberries, all grown without extra cost to the facility’s budget.
Officials say these results highlight only some of the progress made through the program.
“These gardens provide more than fresh food,” said Director Carl Thomas in a statement. “They help stock our kitchens with local produce and give participants real-world skills they can use to support themselves and their families after release.”
