Rotary Community Garden in Prince George can contribute to those in need
Prince George residents who do not have their own garden space can now grow their own fruit and vegetables if they rent a plot available May 1st to September 30th at the new Rotary Community Garden.
Rotary Community Garden As part of the David Douglas Botanical Garden Society (DDBGS) Expansion project on the grounds of the University of Northern British Columbia, the four Rotary Clubs in Prince George over saw and participated in the construction of the Rotary Community Garden (RCG) in 2023. That involved building a perimeter fence, constructing 26 raised garden beds (planter boxes) with four composting boxes and securing water and power to the site. Spring 2024 will see the planting of perennials on the bordering berms and the grand opening with the initial planting of the gardens. The Rotary Community Garden is meant to provide a gardening space to those in Prince George who otherwise would not have the opportunity of growing fruits and vegetables to supplement their food supply.
Volunteers The Rotary Community Garden is the result of generous efforts from Rotary and volunteers (with over 600 recorded volunteer hours). In kind contributions from several Prince George based material suppliers and contractors were also instrumental in making the RCG a reality. Volunteer Rotarians in conjunction with the DDBGS will be responsible for the day to day management or operations of the RCG and there will be no paid staff or coordinator. Additionally, it is expected that the “gardeners” will contribute volunteer time to help maintain the RCG.
Amenities The Rotary Community Garden has 22 raised garden beds available to rent – 7 beds of approximately 1.2m x 4.9m (4 feet x 16 feet) in size, 9 beds of 1.2m x 3.6m (4 feet x 12 feet) and 6 smaller beds. Additionally in the future, there will be one wheel chair accessible raised bed. These garden beds (planter boxes) and pathways surrounding them, will require maintenance and care. Each garden bed will have access to a water line and hoses. Soil amendments will be made available for sharing when possible; otherwise each gardener is responsible for bringing in their own. Additionally, any garden implements provided at the gardeners own cost and labour. There is an area for composting garden waste and weeds. The RCG will be a secure location with gardeners provided with a code to a lock to access the area. This code will be changed from season-to-season. A bulletin board allows gardener communication.
Please thoroughly read and understand the Gardener Handbook & Agreement before renting a Rotary Community Garden Rental Bed.
Gardener Handbook & Agreement 2024
contains:
Garden Information
Rules and Regulations Summary
Community Gardener Checklist
Structure, Committees and Contacts
Site Map and Planter Box Locations
Gardener Agreement
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