Some things you should know about the Christie Pits Community Garden:

• We are entirely volunteer run and supported. This is a community initiative, not an allotment garden. And we need all the volunteer support we can get. This first year won't be possible without the dedication and energy of the community.
• We are a food production garden. The garden will include flowers and pollinator plants in the decorative public border but the interior of the space will be used to grow vegetables.

• Individual and communal plots will be available. A large amount of produce from communal plots will be donated to local organizations in need. Produce from your individual plot may be donated if you like, although there is no obligation to do so. Under city bylaw produce cannot be sold.
• We are dedicated to outreach. We are currently establishing relationships with organizations in the community and plan on creating programs for gardeners of all ages and abilities. Some raised beds will be available for gardeners with physical challenges and paths will be wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs.
• You don't have to be an expert gardener. There is a wealth of gardening knowledge in the community, and workshops will be available. If you have experience you may want to consider volunteering your time to teach others.
• There will be garden regulations for everyone's safety and benefit. Once established, gardeners will be expected to follow the guidelines, and will be subject to loss of membership from the garden due to non-compliance. Plot maintenance will be included in these guidelines.
• Gardening tools will be available for use by members. We are now seeking tools and other materials, and would appreciate any donations.
• Some specific decisions that will affect your involvement with the garden have not been finalized yet because this is our first year and we need more community input. We are in the process of deciding on the design of the garden, individual plot size, number of members this year, and specific regulations. As more applications come in and more volunteers come on board, these will be easier to figure out. Consequently, as this project is constantly evolving, some decisions will be subject to change as we grow together as a community.
• The Christie Pits community garden will be entirely organic. A soil analysis has been done, and there will be regulations against bringing any contaminants into the garden.
• This is going to be a great season! There are many interested people who have contributed wonderful ideas. It's amazing what we've accomplished so far.