Grants Help More Schools Grow Gardens

Students are getting their hands dirty and at the same time learning about growing food locally through school garden projects funded by the province.

A one-time grant of $500 per school is available from the Department of Agriculture's school garden project to build and maintain a garden. The grant can also be used for teaching materials and soil testing fees.

"School gardens help students understand how food gets from the ground to their plates, and that eating fresh, local food is an important part of healthy living," said Agriculture Minister John MacDonell. "Students also learn about the importance of agriculture in our communities, and they leave established gardens for future students to tend."

Last year, 40 schools got grants to develop a garden, and 35 schools got grants in 2011.

"The garden project is an exciting new venture, introducing the children to the wonders of growing their own healthy food," said Garland Standing, principal of Seton Elementary in North Sydney. "The garden is an outdoor classroom where students dig, plant, play and learn. It teaches them to work as a community, developing cooperation, patience and practical experience that will last a lifetime."

The school garden project distributes $20,000 across school board regions. Applications are now being accepted. More information about the project and a school garden resource guide are available at novascotia.ca/agri/agaware.

Encouraging more gardens at schools supports Thrive! A plan for a healthier Nova Scotia. The plan is working to create supportive environments for healthy eating and physical activity, such as increasing food skills and knowledge in schools and developing a provincial food literacy plan. Learn more and take the pledge at thrive.novascotia.ca.