Free Workshop Series on Growing and Harvesting Food & Seeds

The District of Sooke is excited to announce an upcoming series of free workshops hosted by the Sooke Region Food CHI Society, with support from the Sooke Region Communities Health Network (SRCHN) and the Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL). The workshop series, titled “Growing and Harvesting Food & Seeds”, aligns with the goals of the Sooke 2030 Climate Action Plan, helping residents build resilience through sustainable food production practices.

Starting October 20, 2024, this hands-on series will empower community members to contribute to local food security, reduce carbon footprints, and support sustainable agriculture—all key elements of the Sooke 2030 Climate Action Plan. The plan emphasizes the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to climate impacts by encouraging local, sustainable solutions like community gardening and seed saving. These workshops will provide participants with practical tools to grow their own food, reduce waste, and promote environmental stewardship.

Workshop Schedule:

• Oct. 20 (11am-2pm): Planting Garlic – Facilitator: Adam Noseworthy
• Oct. 27 (11am-2pm): Seaweed: Food and Medicine – Facilitator: Amanda Swinimer
• Nov. 3 (11am-2pm): Vegetable Seed Saving Basics – Facilitator: Jessica Prieto
• Nov. 7 (6pm-8pm): Composting Basics – Facilitator: Haya Aldoori
• Nov. 17 (11am-2pm): Fruit Tree Pruning Basics – Facilitator: Jeremy Newell
• Nov. 24 (11am-2pm): Maximizing Garden Yields: Succession Planting – Facilitator: Lo Shrum

This series directly supports the Sooke 2030 Climate Action Plan’s, which includes a focus on building community resilience through food security and promoting sustainable land use practices. By learning how to grow their own food, compost organic waste, and save seeds, residents can reduce their reliance on industrial food systems that contribute to global emissions, while also creating a more self-sufficient, climate-resilient community.

Workshops are free to attend, but space is limited, and participants are encouraged to register early. Visit virl.bc.ca/tag/grow for more information and to sign up.

By supporting local food production and fostering sustainable living practices, the Sooke Region Food CHI Society, in partnership with SRCHN and VIRL, is contributing to the District’s long-term goals for climate action and environmental sustainability. Join us in taking practical steps toward a greener future and a more climate-resilient Sooke!