March 7, 2022
The City of Edmonton is bringing back the Pop-Up Community Garden program for a third year. Pop-Up Community Gardens started in 2020 to help Edmontonians access fresh food and mitigate the impacts of COVID-19 on food security and wellbeing. Pop-Up Community Gardens are raised planters on City-owned or community league licensed land designed for community food production and to be a safe and healthy recreational activity.
From today until March 31, interested groups can submit an application for one of 30 available temporary gardens. Applicant eligibility guidelines have been modified from last season to support groups and individuals with the greatest need.
The City will deliver seven to 15 planter boxes, including soil, to selected sites. Planters will be used for growing edible plants only. While it is preferred that sites have their own water source, the City will be able to provide a water supply for selected sites, if required. Successful applicants will coordinate assigning volunteer duties and plot maintenance activities. Garden groups must provide plants, seeds, disinfecting products, personal gardening protective equipment and tools, as well as the gardening knowledge and commitment to support the garden. Once harvest activities are completed in the fall, the City will remove the planters.
Community gardens promote healthy and active lifestyles, and safer, more vibrant and connected communities. The initiative also increases recreational opportunities and contributes to community building and beautification while helping Edmontonians access fresh and locally grown, fresh food.
