Park programs get $750,000 donation

The Orange County Great Park’s agricultural programs will grow strong roots with the influx of $750,000 from Ohio-based ScottsMiracle-Gro over the next five years.

The donation, which includes $500,000 in financial support and $250,000 in garden products, was commemorated by the replanting of a mature six-ton Jacaranda tree near the Great Park Farm & Food Lab on Sept. 17, according to a press release.

The tree is one of many which will be rescued and replanted as the former Marine Corps Air Station El Toro is transformed into a metropolitan park over the next decade.

ScottsMiracle-Gro will also provide the Great Park with gardening specialists to assist in the maintenance and operation of the Great Park Food & Farm Lab and Community Gardens Program.

The partnership will grow the park’s programming, facilities, exhibits and educational outreach.

—Sarah Peters