Sowing the Seeds of Sustainability: University Gardens Cultivate Community and Knowledge

The University of Calgary’s campus community garden is a thriving hub of sustainable gardening practices, education, and community building. Located near the Cascade Hall residence building and west of Lot 49, this garden is a haven for students, staff, and faculty to grow their own food, learn about environmentally friendly practices, and connect with like-minded individuals.

Students and staff tend to their plots in the campus community garden.

The garden, operated by the Office of Sustainability, offers a unique opportunity for individuals to rent a plot for a mere $20 per growing season. In addition to the plot, members have access to a communal shed equipped with gloves, sprinklers, and other essential gardening tools. For those new to gardening, the garden provides educational resources and workshops to ensure a successful harvest.

“The garden is an educational space for people to learn how to grow food and to hopefully give more access to food to students, staff, faculty, and community members in and surrounding the University of Calgary,” said Ali Epp, engagement coordinator at the Office of Sustainability.

Students learn about composting techniques at a recent workshop.

The garden also hosts various workshops throughout the growing season, covering topics such as food preservation, dehydrating, and pickling. These events not only provide valuable knowledge but also foster a sense of community among members.

“We see a lot of people coming in from a diverse array of gardening experience, and they all find community there, and everybody’s willing to help, so it’s a really good space for that,” Epp explained.

As the garden is situated adjacent to natural areas, visitors are advised to be aware of the local wildlife, including coyotes. The Living with Wildlife website offers valuable resources on how to coexist with these animals.

With plans for expansion in the future, the garden is poised to become an even more integral part of the university community. For those interested in renting a plot for the 2025 growing season, applications typically open in January, but emails to garden@ucalgary.ca are welcome before then to secure a spot on the waitlist.

Mushroom growing workshop attendees learn about the art of fungi cultivation.

The campus community garden is a shining example of the university’s commitment to sustainability and community engagement. By providing a space for individuals to learn, grow, and connect, the garden is sowing the seeds of a brighter, more environmentally conscious future.