Community garden popularity grows

By Ken Johnston
Editor

The popularity of the Rainy River Community Garden keeps growing each year!
Now in its fourth year, the community garden started taking registrations for the 2013 plots last week. “We are already half full!” said Heidi Ivall.
The garden, located on Little Street South, just east of Riverview Elementary School, has 12 family plots and four raised bed gardens available. The larger family plots can also be divided into smaller individual plots.
The garden boasts good soil that is tilled twice a year (spring and fall) as well as a well equipped garden tool shed, running water (with hoses available) and easy access for people of all ages. The raised beds are good for people that are unable to bend down and work the ground.
There is a small user fee to have a plot and there are rules that gardeners must follow. A family plot costs $30, and individual plot costs $20 and the raised beds cost $12. “This fee is to cover the tillage costs and maintenance and tools,” said Ivall.
There has also been a kids garden program associated with the community garden. To register contact the Best Start Hub.
While the winter weather keeps holding on, Ivall said the community garden is moving forward with a May started up in its sights. Plots are first come first served. “I encourage past gardeners to sign up as soon as possible if they want to get a particular plot.” She has half the garden plots filled already and expects the popularity of the program to see a waiting list this year.
Ivall said they had a phenomenal harvest last year and that it is a great opportunity for so many people. It is geared towards providing garden space for people who may have limited outdoor space.
It also has great health benefits. Eating freshly grown local foods is good for people. It also provides for exercise.
Anyone wanting to sign up for a plot can call the NWHU weekdays at 852-3268.