GRAVENHURST – An idea that sprouted up late last year will begin taking root this coming Wednesday, Jan. 30.
Organizers of a new community garden plan will be hosting an open house that evening to discuss the project and give out as much information as possible to anyone who may wish to participate.
“And there’s no gardening experience required,” said Laura Redman, project co-ordinator of Women’s Community Economic Development for YWCA Muskoka, one of the key cogs in the project.
A joint effort between the Town of Gravenhurst, Simcoe-Muskoka District Health Unit, Gravenhurst’s YMCA, Community YWCA of Muskoka, Communities in Bloom and Gravenhurst Manor owners Chartwell-Reit, the hope is to provide garden space for people to grow their own food, share skills and talent and even help ease the financial pressures on struggling families needing to fill their fridges.
Initial plans are to start with between 20 and 25, 10-foot-long plots skirting the pathway and fencing at the Centennial Centre, closest to the rail line and Bethune Drive.
Organizers anticipate placing a small fee on use of a plot, no more than $25 and those who cannot afford the fee would be able to seek subsidy. Coun. Sandy Cairns, who is also involved in helping organize the plan explained the fee is not meant to deter people away, but rather just ensure those using a plot are committed to their project and will keep it clean and weeded, with people getting their money back at the end of the growing season.
The open house takes place Jan. 30 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. in the Centennial Centre’s community meeting room. A light meal will be served.