The Second Company Governor’s Horse Guard (2GHG) welcomed gardeners to shovel and take home composted soil during the second Saturday of four during its annual spring fundraising event, on April 15. There will be two more compost collection days at 21 Old Farm Road, Saturdays, April 22 and 29, from 9 am to 1 pm both days. Follow the road past the dog park and the compost site is on the right.

There was a steady flow of more than 50 cars throughout the morning and early afternoon on April 15. A large pile of compost, prepared by Lieutenant Colonel Steven DeFriesse, was taken down to the ground.

“The compost drive this past Saturday was a huge success, not only as the generous donations helped our fundraising, but it provided a wonderful opportunity for members of our Troop to share information about 2GHG, our mission, our roles as troopers and the roles of our wonderful horses,” said Corporal Melanie Bonjour, among the representatives of the Horse Guard on hand to help shovel dirt for attendees.

“Weather looks great again for this Saturday, and our compost pile is once again prepared and troopers will be on-site to shovel,” said Bonjour, adding that visitors should come with pails and buckets, and that bags and trailers are discouraged.

A suggested $20 donation is gladly accepted and will help to support the activities and mission of the 2GHG.

You could say this is a dirt cheap way to enhance growth in the garden.

The Second Company Governor’s Horse Guard is an all-volunteer unit of the organized state militia. Upon the request of the office of the governor of the State of Connecticut, the adjutant general, municipalities and non-government organizations, the 2GHG participates in ceremonial functions, operates service programs, and entertains the public throughout the state of Connecticut and at its headquarters for the education and benefit of the citizens of the State to promote Connecticut’s rich and revolutionary history.

To learn more about the Horse Guard, search 2GHG.

Sports Editor Andy Hutchison can be reached at andyh@thebee.com.