Planting in community gardens will soon be able to begin, according to the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit.
In April the government of Ontario lifted restrictions, allowing community gardens to operate following the guidance of the local Medical Officer of Health.
The health unit says the region’s Medical Officer of Health, Doctor Paula Stewart, supports Ontario’s decision.
“Community gardens increase access to healthy foods, provide a sense of community belonging and support mental well-being, and physical activity.”
The health unit says under the provincial Emergency Order, only gardens with the capacity to follow the requirements are permitted to operate. A safe operating requirements face sheet has been prepared for local municipalities and community organizations and can be found here.
A rules and guidelines fact sheet for community gardeners has also been developed and can be found here.
Health unit staff is answering COVID-19 related questions and concerns for the public from 8:30am to 4:30pm every day at 1-800-660-5853 extension 2499.
