‘I think the topic of food sustainability is growing with different environmental issues, the cost of food is growing and not everyone has access to land,’ says official
Demand for Orillia’s free garden plots is growing with the increasing cost of produce and desire for locally grown food.
“Last year, not all the spots were taken. This year, we only have two left,” said Megan Visser, the city’s recreation program supervisor.
“Interest in community gardening is growing. I think the topic of food sustainability is growing with different environmental issues, the cost of food is growing and not everyone has access to land.”
The city has 42 free individual growing plots at Hillcrest Park, High Street, York Street and the Lakehead Community Gardens. Two communal garden spaces are located at High Street and Lakehead, where residents can join in to care for the beds. Each garden plot is raised, measures four by 12 feet and includes soil, water and compost access.
This year, governance of community gardens comes under the parks and recreation umbrella. One of the changes is moving to online pre-registration for the garden plots. Pre-registration provides the department with contact information for gardeners.
“We can stay in touch with the gardeners and share updates and news. The goal is to strengthen the sense of community,” said Visser.
The city has always been involved in overseeing community gardens, but under recreation, more programming can be done. A part-time, seasonal gardening co-ordinator is being hired to develop programming.
“We are super excited for this person to start,” said Visser.
Visser enjoys gardening and is “honoured” to be overseeing the program.
“The gardens are so community oriented and such a social thing. It’s such a joy to be part of,” she said.
The one or two plots available are both at Lakehead. However, Visser said she welcomes people to register on a wait list, in case a plot come up, and it allows staff to understand the demand.
“The plan is to expand the program eventually, and we’re hoping the data helps us build that case,” she said.
Those who want to sign up for a garden plot or get on the wait list can go to the city’s Sun Registration.
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