Mulch Available To St. Croix Farmers And Residents

The Department of Agriculture on Thursday announced that double chipped hurricane vegetative material or mulch is available for pick-up on St. Croix.

“The first delivery of mulch to the department grounds was collected by St. Croix residents within hours of distribution which showed the great demand for the material,” D.O.A. Commissioner Carlos Robles said. “We have worked with the parties involved and have secured an additional 3,000 cubic yards of mulch.”

Farmers and homeowners are encouraged to collect and use the mulch for its many benefits including weed control, moisture retention, soil improvement and plant nutrients, according to the release.

Mulch can be obtained from the Rudolph E. Shulterbrandt Agriculture Complex in Estate Lower Love from 7:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Beginning Thursday, October 25, 2018 assistance with loading will be provided for persons with small trucks. Persons who do not require assistance with loading may collect mulch Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Residents must bring their own vehicles, shovels, and other necessary equipment for pick-up, D.O.A. said.

Persons who need larger quantities of mulch can visit the Estate Body Slob mulch site Wednesdays and Fridays 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. beginning Friday, October 26, 2018. Agriculture staff will assist with loading. Please contact the department to make arrangements for assistance.

A release of liability must be signed before mulch collection. The department encourages all interested persons to take advantage of this opportunity to acquire valuable organic material to improve their landscapes, gardens and farms, according to the release.

For more information, contact the Department of Agriculture in St. Croix at 340-778-0997.