Residents of Fort McPherson, N.W.T., came together on Friday to share their experiences and bountiful harvests at a gathering held at the local community greenhouse. The greenhouse, managed by Dinjii Zhuh Solutions, a non-profit organization, has been serving the community for the past four years. It not only grows produce for sale but also provides residents with the opportunity to cultivate their own food.
The festive event featured smoked tea, freshly made doughnuts, and guided tours of the greenhouse. Roberta Alexie, the greenhouse coordinator, highlighted the importance of such gatherings in fostering community spirit and encouraging new participants to engage in gardening. Currently, there are 13 residents, including three children, who have allocated plots in the greenhouse.
One of the youngest growers, a three-year-old girl, visits the greenhouse regularly. Jennifer Greenland, who has been tending her plot for three years, praised her five-year-old daughter for her active involvement in caring for the plants. Greenland expressed her enthusiasm for others in the community to join in and begin their own gardening journey in the upcoming season.
Despite the challenges posed by the short growing season, Alexie emphasized their focus on cultivating crops like tomatoes, broccoli, cabbage, basil, and zucchini. The growing process kicks off in early spring when community members receive seeds and start nurturing plants in various locations around the hamlet. As temperatures rise, the plants are transferred to the greenhouse.
Looking ahead, Alexie anticipates that the greenhouse will remain open for approximately two more weeks this season, subject to weather conditions. The initiative continues to thrive, promoting community engagement and sustainable food production.
Jennifer Greenland and Roberta Alexie are pictured in front of tomatoes grown at the Fort McPherson community greenhouse. Greenland and her daughter utilize the greenhouse to cultivate their own food during the summer.