Using Backyards As Mini-Farms
This is a fabulous idea. Guelph is the perfect community to initiate this urban farming model.
Guelph homeowners are allowing their backyards to be converted to productive vegetable gardens. In return, the homeowners receive a share of the food and are alleviated from yard work.
Backyard Bounty is a private program that aims to provide healthy locally-grown produce from urban yards while reducing fossil fuel usage and waste.
“Not everybody wants to mow grass.” says Project Co-ordinator, Shannon Lee Stirling. “We are offering a better alternative so homeowners can relax while we grow chemical-free food for the community.”
Backyard Bounty will help Guelph become self-sustainable and less reliant on imports. When food is grown locally, there is no need for long shipping, local jobs are created and we all get to know our neighbours better. The result is healthier food and a healthier community. Having less lawnmowers running and cleaner air is another side benefit.
With organic food as one of the fastest growing industries in North America over the last 10 years, it is no wonder why people are ready to get it locally.
“All food is grown from heritage, non-GMO seeds and without any chemical fertilizer or pesticides.” says Scott Williams, Chief Gardener. “Our ideal yard is more than 1000 sq ft with a lot of sunlight. However, if a couple of close-by neighbours have smaller yards and wish to participate, we can certainly consider.”
Backyard Bounty will be selling the produce at the farmer’s market and through a small CSA while also supplying local restaurants and grocers.
If you are interested in having Backyard Bounty take over your yard, or wish to purchase produce or become a volunteer please contact Shannon Lee at 519-803-2539 or info@backyardbounty.ca
Backyard Bounty’s launch takes place at The Evergreen Centre, Woolwich Street, Guelph on March 22 from 1.30 – 4.30 p.m. The launch features talks by Liz Nowatschin from restaurant Artisanale, Ali English from Farm Start and music by James Gordon.
Shannon Lee Stirling will be on Royal City Rag on March 18 to talk about the launch of Backyard Bounty.
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James Gordon’s Song Of The Month For December – Getting Seasonal!
Posted in Commentary, tagged James Gordon on December 10, 2009| Leave a Comment »
James Gordon’s song of the month for December, this time with a bit of a seasonal feel but remembering those that are not so fortunate at this time of year.
According to James: “It’s not a new song. It’s on my Mining For Gold album, so you guys all have it right? What? Well, that’s easy to rectify. It’s available at www.borealisrecords.com .Oh, back to the video. I know I know, I’m getting a bit arty with these, but I’m having fun. It’s my usual anti-consumerist socialist rant but disguised as a Christmas Song. “
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