Rolin Foundation has announced its support of Swale, a mobile, floating food forest that will dock at different piers around New York City’s harbor. Technologies on Swale purify New York City’s river water and use it to produce fresh food. Launching in spring 2016, the fifty-foot wide floating platform, created by artist Mary Mattingly, will be open to the public and educate New York City public school students about the value of food, gardens, and ecosystems. Upon completion, Swale will feature an edible forest garden that the public is welcome to visit and collect fresh food as well.

In supporting the project, Rolin Foundation spearheaded a collaboration with Dwight-Englewood School, on the other side of the Hudson River, in New Jersey. Students will have the opportunity to assist Mattingly in the design charrettes and build-out of garden beds for Swale.

Mattingly will meet the students to discuss various design elements of Swale, including water collection and modular garden bed structures. The group will work together to combine the separate elements into one formal design based on modules. The collaboration will help students understand Swale as an art project, sculpture and hands-on garden experience. It will also teach students about the future of food, water and environmental concerns that the project aspires to convey.

“It is incredibly exciting for our Foundation to support Swale, a revolutionary project that stimulates an important discussion about the fundamental and often overlooked concepts of food and water consumption and the environment,” stated Sue Evans, president, Rolin Foundation. “Inspiring students through Swale and the work of Mary Mattingly dovetails seamlessly with our commitment to education and contemporary art – we are proud to offer our support.”

“The support provided by the Rolin Foundation is integral to the development of Swale,” stated Mattingly. “From facilitating the opportunity to engage Dwight-Englewood students in concept-driven design/build workshops, to being a key donor of Swale’s ecological infrastructure, we are honored and privileged to be working with the Rolin Foundation on this important endeavor.”