
The Village of Chase is celebrating the grand opening of the Riverstone Community Food Forest in Wilson Park.
The new garden area includes a variety of features designed to increase the community’s connection to nature, as well as promoting sustainability and education.
Ashton Sweetnam, Chase and Area Family Services executive director, said in a statement the food forest will serve as a living classroom and an “edible pantry for all.”
“The Riverstone Community Food Forest is a testament to community collaboration and environmental stewardship,” Sweetnam said. “It includes an array of edible fruit trees and shrubs, creating a living pantry accessible to all.”
“These plants not only provide nutritious food, but also serve as a living classroom for those interested in learning about local agriculture and sustainable practices.”
The garden also supports local biodiversity with food sources for pollinators, habitats for birds and insects, and natural play spaces for children.
Visitors will soon be able to engage with signage explaining the importance of sustainable practices and the role of each plant and feature in the ecosystem.
The food forest was designed by Sheleigh Garsen, a regenerative landscape designer who specializes in creating sustainable landscapes.
“She provided crucial project management during the early stages, ensuring that the vision for the food forest was meticulously planned and executed,” Sweetnam said.
“Her innovative design incorporates elements that cater to the needs of both humans and wildlife, creating a harmonious balance within the space.”
When it was time to build the project, local volunteers stepped up.
“The actual planting and layout of the gardens were accomplished through a series of volunteer-led work bees, demonstrating the power of community involvement in bringing such projects to life,” Sweetnam said. “These events saw volunteers from all walks of life coming together to contribute their time and effort.”
Local elementary classes also helped contribute to the planting of trees and shrubs, and learned about horticulture and teamwork along the way.
The United Way Food Infrastructure Grant provided the financial foundation for the project, and additional funding was provided by the Village of Chase, Destination BC, Scotts Grow for Good and the Chase Literacy Program, among other sponsors.
“These contributions reflect a strong community commitment to fostering a sustainable and educational public space,” Sweetnam said. “The Riverstone Community Food Forest is a celebration of community spirit and environmental awareness.
“It stands as a model for how public spaces can be transformed into hubs of learning, collaboration, and natural beauty.”
The Riverstone Community Food Forest in Wilson Park is now open for everyone to enjoy.
