What's going on behind the signs?

What’s going on behind the signs?

Or how to “read between the lines”....

 

Last year we had an exceptional rough year with theft and vandalism.  
Police were involved we focused on how to try and stop this.

Steps in response:

• Were featured on Global TV with Nancy Hixt.

• CBC Radio interview about garden theft.

• Spoke many times with our community liaison officer, Constable Sara Killington.

• Met with Janet Melrose from the Community Garden Resource Network.

• Attended meetings at the Calgary Horticultural Society with other community garden representatives to discuss how they were handling similar situations.

• Researched other community gardens signs on our personal travels around North America.

• Accepted a position on the board for 2013 to have our voice heard, and also to be mindful of the community centre in what we do.  One of us attends monthly meetings.  We had representation at many of the 2012 meetings.

• Got a quote for a video surveillance of the garden area.

• Did late night surveillance.

• Discussed the feasibility of installing a chain link fence to enclose the garden.

• Accepted a cash donation from Tower Chrysler to assist us in stopping theft and vandalism with improved signage.

 

A Calgary Police Officer who had worked in the Victims Assistance Unit said the garden was too accessible, too open and therefore vulnerable.  He emphasized GARDEN responsibility to take preventative measures to avoid both theft and vandalism.  He recommended signs and lighting to start with.

Our local Constable, Sara Killington stated, “Signage would help negate perpetrators using the defence of believing the produce is for public consumption.”  She suggested specific wording to make police prosecution more feasible.

We created signage to define the ‘rules of the garden:  If you didn’t plant it – do not pick it!

The sign’s design, wording and placement clarify the ‘rules of the garden’ to all visitors entering the garden from the curb or from the playing field. 

Watch for new motion-sensor lighting!

Last board meeting – new motion sensor lights were approved to be placed by the doors on the exterior of the building on the garden side for increased security.

Other ways we were advised to reduce the risk of vandalism is to show a sense of pride and ownership.

This includes:

• Installation of two new Mid-Sun Community Garden signs to bring awareness of what we are – created by Sheri Reed, who used a special anti-graffiti paint coating on the signs

 

• being on top of cutting grass in between all the plots

• having a deadline for plots to be planted

• plots weeded

• harvesting produce before plants go to seed

• keeping the garden area free of garbage and no overflowing garbage container

We did lose some of our gardeners last year due to theft that occurred.  We chose to take action rather than being complacent. It brought us closer as a community.

We want to celebrate our successes!  This year has already exceeded expectations for community growth.  The shed!  Eye-catching painted signs!  New gardeners!  Garden Launch party!  Phase 1 of the Pathways Project completed!

Summer is short and life does get busy for all. 

• Ask the gardener beside you if you need help with your plot. 
• Do what you can do when you can do it.  
• We are community and there is much more than plants growing in the garden!  
• Let’s work together to protect and enhance the garden and community that is growing.  
• You are encouraged to continue sharing your views. 

Happy gardening!