What is the Community Garden Network (CGN)?

Incorporated as a not-for-profit society in 2003, the Community Garden Network (CGN) is comprised of volunteers, representing existing and emerging community gardens throughout Edmonton and area, and is supported by agencies and organizations that share the vision of the CGN. 

Community Gardening in Edmonton

A community garden is a group of people who garden in individual plots and/or common areas. In Edmonton, most gardens are operated in partnership with a not-for-profit entity, such as a municipal department, social service agency, church or a co-operative housing complex.  Community gardens are created for a variety of reasons.  Primarily, community gardeners grow for food self reliance, for physical activity, and for social interaction. Interest in starting a community garden? Click here.

Currently, local numbers of community gardens have blossomed to about thirty, and one project, the On "R" Own Home Society represents 24 Capital Regional Housing sites bringing the total to just over 50 community gardens. Several are in the planning stage including many school community projects.  In 2001, our census indicated approximately 240,000 sq.ft. of space on church lots, residential backyards, a utility right of way, downtown vacant lots, a former rail yard, and city parks had been converted to community garden use. Nine sites are on City property, twenty seven are in partnership with Capital Regional Housing.

Benefits of Community Gardening in Edmonton

 In 2001 more than 835 families increased their consumption of fresh, organic fruits and vegetables by growing their own food in community gardens.  In 2002 and 2003, over one hundred youth and children accessed programming hosted at three community gardens: growing their own food, caring for plants, and observing wildlife. On average, a community garden plot grows about $100 worth of fresh produce each year which makes for an approximate $287,000 contribution to food self reliance in the City. 

Community gardens serve a community of diversity: the elderly, teens, low income, newly arrived immigrants, young children, and people with a variety of physical and mental capacities. Quality of life is enhanced for all; influencing the individual, the family and the community in many ways.   On a personal level, individuals are healthier with access to organic fruits and vegetables, are physically more active, and enjoy the benefits of social interactions with their neighbours.  Depressed, isolated individuals become healthy community leaders. Troubled youth become involved and productive.  Families learn to work together to increase their food security.  Recent immigrants to Canada feel more at home and more engaged with their neighbours.  Food is grown for the food bank.

As well, physical change takes place within the community landscape.  Unsafe, unsightly abandoned lots are turned into safe and vibrant community gathering places. Neighbourhoods are greener, and have better weed and litter control.