Aroostook town turns unused land into a spot that grows connections

BANGOR DAILY NEWS • July 2, 2026

A plot of land in a northern Maine town that had been unused for over 15 years is now a thriving space that grows food and builds community. The Van Buren Community Garden, which was funded by a $44,345 Community Action Grant, is one of the town’s many revitalization efforts that use existing assets and grant funding to minimize local costs. The garden was built on a plot devastated by a 100-year flood in 2008. Besides repurposing the land, the venture allows residents to socialize, spend time outside and learn about food production. It also helps to address food insecurity.