A group called Iron Range Veterans of Steel took a road trip to the Silver Bay Veterans Home on Wednesday. They got their hands dirty, with gardening projects.

The steelworkers made quick work of a list of things that needed to get done for the growing season.

“The man hours that they provide us, could not be replicated by my team because we have so many things going on,” Recreation Director at Silver Bay Veterans Home, Julie Luchsinger said. “The fact that they can take care of all of our garden beds, and all of the new mulch, and empty all of the old dirt and replace it with new dirt, and build new beds, is just really phenomenal.”

The group is made up of veterans from across the six mines and they enjoy giving back.

“Why wouldn’t you want a nice place to live?” Justin Klakoski asked. “And we understand that they are short staffed, and can’t keep up with the gardening. This is a great opportunity for us to give back to our veterans.”

Financial support from various fundraisers helps with this work, covering the costs of materials necessary for the gardening efforts.

Steve Biondich says their group was so appreciated last year, that “It was a no-brainer to come back and do it again this year.”

The fruits and vegetables from the gardens are not only a source of fresh food for the residents but also promote sustainability through local gardening practices.

If you want to help volunteer in the gardens, they’d take it! Reach out to Randall: randall.walz@state.mn.us

The group also spent time at Veterans on the Lake in Ely recently, helping them get ready for the season.