It's fresh, growing, thriving.
Like any good garden should.
Vernon's snc蓹cma艂qtn Agricultural Park (SAP) is flourishing as community spirit and new initiatives transform the park into a vibrant hub for sustainable agriculture, environmental restoration, and community engagement.
The newly established community garden officially opened on May 1 and is buzzing with activity.
"Plots are fully subscribed, and local gardeners are busy planting this year鈥檚 crops," said the Regional District of North Okanagan (RDNO). "This marks a significant milestone in the park鈥檚 mission to foster community-led food production and education."
In addition to the community garden, several other exciting projects are underway:
Food Forest Development: Volunteer-led efforts by the Friends of SAP are bringing the Food Forest to life. With support from a $7,760 BC Hydro ReGreening Grant and $2,240 from the RDNO Rural Economic Development Fund, work is progressing on walking paths, irrigation, and planting edible trees, shrubs, and plants.
Hog鈥檚 Gulch Wetland Restoration: Associated Environmental has been retained to manage this vital ecological restoration project, which is supported by a $30,000 Okanagan Basin Water Board Water Conservation and Quality Improvement Grant. Friends of SAP volunteers and donated machinery play a key role in restoring this wetland.
Three Sisters Pumpkin Patch: This new addition to the park celebrates traditional Indigenous agricultural practices. The Friends of SAP, in collaboration with local school groups, will grow pumpkins, squash, and other vegetables here. The vision for this site is to produce food for local use and educate visitors to the park on food and the techniques used to grow it.
Hedgerow Planting: New hedgerows are being established throughout the park to enhance wildlife habitat, provide windbreaks, and create natural boundaries.
Soil Amending and Seeding at the North End: The Greater Vernon Diversion and Disposal Facility is generously contributing its RDNO-Gro to revitalize the park鈥檚 north end with native grasses and improved soil conditions.
Commercial Agricultural Activity: The park is home to various commercial agricultural ventures, including beekeeping, vegetable and flower production, and feed crop harvesting, showcasing the park鈥檚 role in supporting local food systems and regenerative agriculture.
鈥淭he transformation of snc蓹cma艂qtn Agricultural Park is a testament to what can be achieved through community collaboration and vision," said Bob Fleming, director of RDNO Electoral Area B, and chair of the Electoral Area Advisory Committee. 鈥淚t鈥檚 inspiring to see so many people come together to create something that benefits both the land and the people.鈥�
Electoral Area C Director Amanda Shatzko added: "The park is truly thriving. From food security to environmental stewardship, SAP is becoming a model for sustainable community development.鈥�
The snc蓹cma艂qtn Agricultural Park continues to grow as a model of innovation, sustainability, and community pride. Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to explore the park and participate in its many initiatives.
More information on the park can be found at .
