We are very pleased to announce that, in partnership with the PQB Fruit Tree Project, we have received a grant through Agriculture Canada Local Food and Infrastructure Fund and are now breaking ground on a wonderful new Community Art Garden beside the McMillan Arts Centre. See the attached graphic, explaining the plans and some information about The PQB Fruit Tree Project, who have been involved with other local community gardens in Oceanside.
This garden will feature fruit and berry trees, raised garden beds + picnic tables, that will be wheelchair accessible, and a paved pathway meandering through this welcome and creative garden. A 16 X 20’ greenhouse will provide a teaching area, dehyration station and hydroponic areas to grow produce year round and host workshops and classes in all things garden: flower arranging, bonsai, herb gardens, small garden urban spaces. Our neighbours, and co-owners of the property, Inclusion Parksville, are thrilled to now start programming for their adult participants, fun activities using the raised garden beds, to grow, harvest and prepare food from the garden. The MAC will run summer Creative Kids classes and Art Therapy in the garden, encourage artists to bring their easels and paint, and PQB Fruit Tree Project will continue their mission to provide fresh fruits and vegetables to our neighbours in downtown Parksville. Eventually, more raised garden beds will be created for rent/use by community members.
Please see the graphic below, and here are the contacts for more information:
Dan Larocque, PQB Fruit Tree Project pqbfruit@gmail.com
Jennifer Bate, McMillan Arts Centre info@mcmillanartscentre.com
