Mr. Speaker, at the appropriate time this afternoon I will be tabling two documents detailing this government’s work to promote community gardens and the Small Scale Food Program in the Northwest Territories.
The Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment began this initiative two years ago with financial support from the Canada–Northwest Territories Agriculture Policy Framework Agreement. Under the Canada–Northwest Territories Agriculture Policy Framework Agreement a total of $1.7 million was invested in agricultural projects in the NWT over five years, including programs in science and innovation; renewal, including the Small Scale Foods Initiative Program; environment; and food safety and quality.
While the small scale foods initiative may be relatively new, the concept of growing foods in the North is not. In fact, early settlers to our region had a proven history of growing and harvesting food to meet their dietary needs. For two decades our government has provided support to such efforts as required and as resources have permitted.
Most of our community garden programs begin with a group of very committed local residents who work with us to select small parcels of land for development into a community garden. With assistance and support these gardens are established, cultivated and maintained throughout the course of our short growing season, and the result is often shared within the community. For example, Mr. Speaker, in the community of Whati vegetables produced in the community garden were used in a community feast this fall. In total, 19 community gardens were planted and harvested in the NWT this summer.
These projects support diversification and healthy living and encompass representation from every age group. They require only basic tools and a little hard work. There are, of course, challenges like wandering bison, burrowing groundhogs, hungry rabbits, not enough water, too much water and variable temperatures. The outcome, however, is always worth the effort. Fresh potatoes, carrots, broccoli, turnips and onions are just a few of the nutritious rewards for the time that is invested.
One producer in Tulita advised that he planted six rows of carrots: two for him and four for the neighbourhood kids. This is a very effective method of attracting new volunteer gardeners.
Mr. Speaker, producing foods locally makes sense. It saves money and contributes to a healthier way of life. We are pleased to provide this program with continued support from the Government of Canada, and we look forward to building on our success to expand the program into each of the Northwest Territories’ 33 communities.
Thank you, Mr. McLeod. The honourable Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs, Mr. Robert McLeod.
