The City of Nanaimo has named a community garden after a beloved community member known for his food sustainability efforts.
Craig Evans had championed food sustainability in the Harbour City for over 30 years. Evans died at the age of 67 on March 6, 2023 due to a terminal illness.
Evans and his partner Jen Cody fought tirelessly to save the farmland where the garden is now named after him.
“It was a surprise that they decided to name the five acres-farm community park and then put a section of that as the Craig Evans community garden, so it’s a wonderful surprise,” said Cody.
Named the Craig Evans Community Garden, the space aims to align with the 933 Park Avenue Concept Plan endorsed by city council on Jan. 20, 2025, says the City of Nanaimo.
After founding the Nanaimo Food share society back in 1997, Evans never stopped growing organic food for the less fortunate, right till his last day.
“Craig was one hundred per cent himself here, and he spent his last days on the farm and in the field and doing what he really loved, he didn’t want to do anything else,” said Cody.
Nanaimo Mayor Leonard Krog presented Evans with the Patron of the City Award before his passing. Krog remembers Evans as a gardening powerhouse fully committed to the city’s food security initiatives dating back to the late 70s.
“Was he a saint? Probably pretty close. The city paid him tribute by making a patriot of the city before he passed,” said Krog.
Krog feels that naming the garden after Evans is a way to ensure his legacy lives on for years to come.
Future plans of the five-acre community site may include improved public access, a boardwalk with educational signage and seating, and a nature play area.
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