While its roots are connected to Lanark Highlands Plan B and ConnectWell Community Health, the  South Lanark Community Garden (SLCG) was established in September of 2021 as its own non-profit. SLCG focuses on growing and supplying fresh produce to members who participate in the success of the garden. The garden is not divided into individual plots but rather is one big garden of about 3 acres. Plan B Lanark and The Table Community Food Centre distribute produce from the garden to the broader community. When it is available, produce is also given to Lanark Highlands Food Pantry and The Hunger Stop in Carleton Place.

This spring, with a Community Grant of $8,959.77 from PDCF, the South Lanark Community Garden will purchase a new BCS 739 walk-behind rototiller. This tiller will replace the old method of using a tractor with an attached rototiller to prepare the growing beds. The new method will better maintain the soil’s health and be easier on the environment and, combined with using fungal dominant compost, will reduce the need for other soil amendments. Volunteers will be able to use the tiller themselves and this will increase their connection and personal investment in the garden and develop their skill sets too.

The SLCG is about growing food, but it is also about growing community. Working together, SLCG volunteers have many opportunities to meet new people, create new friends, and to get things done. Volunteers of various ages work side-by-side and learn from each other.

Growing local food and local community at the same time makes for a scrumptious recipe of connection and sustainability! PDCF is delighted to be part of that creation.