Fruit, Flowers, and Fresh Air: Why You’ll Love Hi-Line Prairie Gardens & Orchard

Tucked away in Northeast Valley City at the corner of 5th Ave NE and 9th St NE, the Hi-Line Prairie Gardens & Orchard is a testament to what a passionate community can create. What began in 2016 as an effort to transform an unused, overgrown lot into something beautiful has flourished into a four-acre sanctuary of native plants, fruit-bearing trees, and peaceful walking paths. Today, it stands as a space for relaxation, education, and community connection.

A Community-Driven Vision

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The gardens exist thanks to a dedicated group of volunteers - a sitting city commissioner, Cass County community developer, 2 VCSU professors, NDSU extension agent and a dedicated community volunteer - who envisioned a space that would support both people and pollinators. With nearly $200,000 in grants, donations, and countless hours of hard work, this once-forgotten land has been turned into a lush green retreat. From fruit trees to pollinator gardens, every element has been carefully designed to foster sustainability and enjoyment.

Growing Through the Years

• Phase 1 (2016): The first fruit and ornamental trees were planted, along with a pilot pollinator garden.

• Phase 2 (2018): Fruiting shrubs and a retaining wall were added, along with another pollinator garden.

• Phase 3 (2022): The space truly came to life with walking paths, additional pollinator and natural grasses gardens, a vineyard, educational signage, seating areas, and a picturesque bridge.

• Phase 4 (In Progress!): Fundraising is underway for a gazebo, which will serve as an outdoor classroom and gathering space.

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Why Visit?

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll, a hands-on learning experience, or just a fresh-picked apple, the gardens have something for everyone:

• A Natural Retreat – Stroll through colorful gardens, listen to the hum of pollinators, and take in the beauty of native North Dakota flora.

• Free Fresh Fruit – Apples, cherries, plums, pears, and berries are all available for visitors to pick and enjoy.

• Pollinator-Friendly – The gardens are designed to support bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.

• Community Involvement – Visitors can join volunteer days, adopt a tree or shrub, or help plant new additions to the garden.

• Educational Opportunities – VCSU students, school groups, and local organizations use the gardens as a living classroom, learning about sustainability and native species.

  
  

Help Grow the Future

The next step in the garden’s journey is the addition of a gazebo—a place where students can learn, families can gather, and visitors can relax in the shade. You can be part of this exciting project by:

• Adopting a tree or shrub – Leave a lasting impact by dedicating a plant in your name or in honor of a loved one.

• Volunteering – Whether it’s pulling a few weeds or planting something new, every effort makes a difference.

• Donating to the gazebo project – Your contribution will help create a lasting space for the community to enjoy.

For more information or to get involved, contact Madeline Luke at 701-306-7339 or email mzlnd@yahoo.com. You can also follow the Hi Line Prairie Gardens and Orchard Facebook page for updates, events, and volunteer opportunities.

Come explore, enjoy the fresh air, and experience a place where nature and community grow together!