When we moved onto our 11-acre farm, we saw an opportunity to create something bigger than just a garden. Many of our neighbours already grew food but didn’t have the space for a large potato crop. We gathered together to share ideas, discuss what varieties to grow, and dream about how we could work collaboratively. From those conversations, our very first Potato Co-op was born.
Today, our co-op includes 10–15 adults and many children who have come together throughout the season to prepare the soil, plant more than 500 potato plants, hill the rows, and experiment with different growing methods. Along the way, we’ve learned from one another, shared knowledge, and worked side by side to build healthy soil by mowing, mulching, and creating compost.
While we’ve already enjoyed a few early potatoes, the biggest harvest is still to come. In the coming weeks, we’ll gather once again to harvest the crop and share the bounty among participating families.
More than simply growing potatoes, this project has cultivated community. It has brought neighbours together, provided opportunities for children to learn where food comes from, encouraged the exchange of skills and ideas, and strengthened local food security. The support of this grant helped turn a shared vision into a thriving community initiative, and we look forward to continuing and expanding the Potato Co-op in the years ahead.
