Imagine a future where residents could walk across Cornwall, picking fresh fruit, vegetables, and herbs to use at home for free. If this idea excites you, the Social Development Council of Cornwall and Area invite you to attend the upcoming public meeting to brainstorm ideas for edible landscaping in Cornwall. The meeting will be held on Wednesday, September 12, 2018 from 5:30pm – 7:00pm at the Benson Centre.
Edible landscaping refers to the use of food-producing plants in the landscape design and generally combines fruit and nut trees, berry bushes, vegetables, herbs, edible flowers, along with ornamental plants into aesthetically pleasing designs. Unlike traditional community garden design, fruit and vegetables grown in edible landscapes are meant to be used by everyone in the community, not just the people volunteering to manage the spaces.
“Edible landscaping is not just about producing fresh food, it also helps to create new and unique spaces for residents to learn and engage with their natural environment, community, and local food systems.” Says Carilyne Hebert, Executive Director of the Social Development Council. “We see this initiative as key to helping us developing a more vibrant community for Cornwall and Area”.
Edible landscaping in public spaces is not a new concept around the world, however it is relatively uncommon in Ontario making this a great educational opportunity for the region. Organizers hope this initiative leads to guided or self-guided walking tours, teachable spaces for schools, and volunteer led gardening workshops offered in both English and French.
“We need commitment from the community in the form of volunteers and or sponsorship before getting approval from the City of Cornwall and moving forward,” explain Carilyne. “If all goes well and we get the volunteers, we will be able to pilot the project in several flower beds next spring.”
Carilyne Hebert
Executive Director of the Social Development Council of Cornwall and Area
[email protected]
613-703-7563