Fort St. John Community Gardens welcomes new management

FORT ST. JOHN —  The Fort St. John Community Gardens will have new management this year after local gardeners have created the North Peace Community Garden Society to handle responsibilities.

The society was formed in February 2024 by gardeners from the community and North Peace Horticultural Society members to maintain the gardens. 

The garden beds will not be repaired this season. Instead, the beds will be taken apart and planted as mounds, flower beds, and communal beds rather than private plots.

The garden, located at 9504, 100 Avenue behind the Church of the Resurrection, was created in 2010 in partnership with numerous community organizations. 

The North Peace Horticultural Society previously managed the garden last year after the Northern Environmental Action Team (NEAT) permanently closed its office in 2023.

Natasha Stanton, a member of the society, says the garden’s responsibilities have been clearer since the change in management. 

“We’ve all gotten along really well and are excited for our vision and opportunity going forward with the garden,” said Stanton. 

Community members can rent bed spaces in the gardens for $10 each and are allowed to plant flowers, fruits, plants, and vegetables.

“There are strong gardeners here in the city. We’re still finding them and bringing the community together,” said Stanton. 

The society welcomes volunteers who are interested in gardening. 

Residents can connect with the garden society through its social media on Facebook and Instagram or email at npcommunitygardensociety@gmail.com.