Recreation and Culture

The most successful community gardens are designed with the input of the community, to ensure that the garden meets the specific demand and needs of the community. Springwater Township is currently conducting a survey to gather and gauge the interest for the implementation of a Community Garden Project and Policy.

There are several kinds of community gardens - they can consist of collective/communal plots, allotment plots, or a combination of the two.

Features of Collective/Communal Plots

These plots are collectively tended to – a community group or group of volunteers is organized to take care of all elements of the garden. The produce from the garden often goes back to the group and/or to the local food bank. 

Features of Allotment Plots

In allotment plots, the garden is divided into smaller plots that are then allocated to individuals to take care of. They can be rented out to members of the community, given to individuals, including food bank recipients, or allocated to community groups. Each person is responsible for the maintenance and growing of their individual plot and often keep the produce that is grown on their plot.

Hybrid Models

This type of Community Garden will have allotment plots and communal plots available. A portion of the garden could be reserved for growing supplemental fresh herbs and vegetables for the food bank or other local initiatives.

Benefits of a Community Garden

Community Gardens have many benefits for a community, including providing fresh produce to compliment your household needs and increase your ability to offer fresh, healthy, low-cost food that can substitute weekly grocery expenses. It can also benefit the local food banks with fresh produce for food hampers and baskets.

Additional benefits include:

• Promotes local food productions and food security
• Additional access to opportunities for physical activity for all age groups
• A social gathering place for the community, that is inclusive, friendly, and fun
• Community spirit and increased engagement
• Increased education for participants including basic gardening skills, healthy eating, and an increased understanding of the local food system and sustainable food systems
• An opportunity for participants to build confidence and new skills
• Improvement of the local environment through the preservation and productive use of green space
• Creative nature space for play and exercise

Please take a moment to fill out the survey to help staff determine the viability and objective of a Community Garden. 

We publish two seasonal recreation guides each year, filled with fitness classes, camps, recreation programs and special events. You can pick up a hard copy of your guide at the Township Administration Centre, Elmvale Arena or any Springwater Public Library branch. 

View the 2020 Spring & Summer Recreation Guide Online

Three primary master plans lead the Township's recreation, parks and culture:

• The Parks and Recreation Master Plan guides the growth of recreation programming, indoor and outdoor facilities, and parks and open space into 2030.
• The Master Cultural Plan and key findings identify, promote and leverage cultural resources to support economic and community development projects.
• The Trails Master Plan details a comprehensive interconnected trail system for the municipality, including non-motorized and motorized uses.