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
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):Â The first fruit and ornamental trees were planted, along with a pilot pollinator garden.
Phase 2 (2018):Â Fruiting shrubs and a retaining wall were added, along with another pollinator garden.
Phase 3 (2022):Â 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!):Â Fundraising is underway for a gazebo, which will serve as an outdoor classroom and gathering space.
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!