A New Chapter in Community Gardening
The sun rises over the rolling hills of Greater Vernon, casting a warm glow over the sncəcmałqtn Agricultural Park, a 132-acre haven for community growth and development. Nestled on the traditional territory of the syilx, this land has been transformed into a vibrant community garden, poised to bring people together and foster a sense of belonging. The sncəcmałqtn Community Garden, located at 4122 East Vernon Rd., Regional District North Okanagan Electoral Area C (BX), is the realization of a long-held vision to create a community resource for agriculture, passive recreation, and habitat conservation. The garden’s operations and maintenance are overseen by the NexusBC Community Resource Centre, ensuring that this project stays true to its core values of community development, food security, and social interaction. The garden’s plot rentals will be available annually, allowing community members to cultivate their own plots and reap the rewards of fresh, homegrown produce. A Look at the History and Planning Behind the Garden
The sncəcmałqtn Agricultural Park was established in 2024, after the Regional District of North Okanagan (RDNO) acquired the property with the aim of creating a community resource that would contribute to the area’s food security, community development, and positive social interaction. This 132-acre space is home to the BX Ranch Trail, which connects users to the BX and Mutrie Dog Parks, and various agricultural land uses. The chair of the Electoral Area Advisory Committee and director of RDNO Electoral Area B, Bob Fleming, emphasizes the importance of recreation opportunities that contribute to food security, community development, and positive social interaction. He states, “We are committed to providing recreation opportunities that contribute to food security, community development, and positive social interaction. This community garden will enhance community agriculture in the area and provide a space for growth in more ways than one.”
Amanda Shatzko, Electoral Area C director, shares her enthusiasm for the garden, highlighting its potential to bring people together. She notes, “This garden gives residents a chance to grow more than food — it’s where sustainability, culture, and community come together. By growing food locally and learning from one another, we’re planting the seeds of resilience and connection. I’m excited to see how this garden takes root and thrives in our community.”
Key Features and Benefits of the sncəcmałqtn Community Garden
• Annual plot rentals for community members
• Opportunities for community members to learn from one another and share knowledge
• A chance to grow fresh, locally-sourced produce
• An inclusive space for people of all ages and skill levels
• A space for community events and activities
The construction of the garden is underway, and it is expected to open to interested gardeners on May 1. For those eager to get involved, visit nexusbc.ca/programs/community-gardens to learn more and join the wait list for a plot. A Community Garden for the Ages
The sncəcmałqtn Community Garden is more than just a plot of land – it’s a symbol of community, sustainability, and connection. It’s a space where people can come together, share knowledge, and grow food for themselves and their families. As the garden takes root and thrives, it will become a beacon of hope and a source of inspiration for the community. By creating a space for community members to grow their own food, the sncəcmałqtn Community Garden is fostering a sense of community and belonging. It’s a place where people can connect with one another, share their experiences, and learn from one another’s successes and challenges. The garden’s potential to promote sustainability, culture, and community is vast. By growing food locally, community members will be reducing their carbon footprint and supporting local agriculture. The garden will also provide a space for community events and activities, bringing people together and strengthening social bonds. In conclusion, the sncəcmałqtn Community Garden is a shining example of community-led initiatives that are transforming public spaces into vibrant hubs of community activity. As the garden opens its gates to the community, it will be a testament to the power of collaboration and the importance of creating spaces that promote social interaction, community development, and sustainability.