Port Coquitlam, BC – Mar. 17, 2022… New community garden plots open for registration today for residents to engage with nature this season while sowing and reaping the rewards of growing their own food.

16 new community garden plots at the Port Coquitlam Community Centre – Terry Fox Hometown Square are available and ready to be allocated to Port Coquitlam residents and community members.

“As part of our greener City initiative we are committed to providing residents with opportunities to stay healthy, active, and sustainable. A community garden is a great step toward strengthening our community’s connection to nature and reinforcing the importance of producing fresh, wholesome, nutritious food. said Mayor Brad West “Community gardens are an important part of building community, environmental awareness and healthier lifestyles. Projects like this, such as the community garden makes our City a great place to live, work, learn and play.”

There are currently three community gardens operating in Port Coquitlam, one that is operated via a lease from Metro Vancouver (Colony Farm), and two that are operated on leased City land at Elks Park and Central Park.

Community gardens allow individuals and families to grow fresh, affordable healthy produce while increasing physical activity. These gardens will provide neighbourhood residents with the opportunity to become engaged in a healthy recreation activity while growing nutritious food, meeting neighbours, building community, learning about the growing cycle, and beautifying the open space.

Residents must apply online by Mar. 31 at portcoquitlam.ca/communitygarden. City staff will randomly allocate the garden plots in early April for a full 2022 gardening season. Due to popular demand those that do not get a plot will be put on a waitlist for future years.

“Everyone should have access to safe, nutritious and culturally appropriate food for their well-being,” said Cllr. Laura Dupont, Council’s designate for climate action and environment matters. “Community gardens play a key role in making our community more food secure.”

Details about the City’s community garden plots and for a map of locations can be found at portcoquitlam.ca/communitygarden.

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MEDIA CONTACTS

Ximena Ibacache
Manager of Communications & Administrative Services
City of Port Coquitlam
Tel 604.927.5499
Email ibacachex@portcoquitlam.ca