The BIG DIG DAY March 16th 2013
I have for some time felt the need to grow my own foods, partly for financial reasons, but also to limit my reliance on the supermarkets and my increasing concerns over genetically modified organisms (GMOs) that are used to grow food by altering the genetics and increasing substandard ingredients found in processed foods. Also a large factor in my interest is to find that connection with the soil and the outdoors and some extra fitness in turning the soil.
I do not possess a garden of my own which led me to research window gardens and then into guerilla gardening, into community gardening where I stumbled upon The Big Dig.
The Big Dig is a project that brings people together in Urban Community gardens in people’s local areas to help dig, plant and grow. To get communities involved with the land and learn about aspects of food and food sectors. It aims to develop networks between people, organisations and businesses to support and inspire people. On March 16th 2013 over 200 community gardens will be participating on the “BIG DIG DAY.”
Locally to me in Bournemouth & Poole there are 5 plots participating on the Big Dig Day and each one will have variations on the activities.
It will be my first time volunteering for gardening and shall be present at the Slades Farm Open Space Ensbury Park.
I hope this will be the start of something new for me and growing involvement with the community so we can all share our experiences and food into the future.
The structure goes something like this:
All of the work days are from 10:00 – 12:00. Feel free to turn up any time after 10:00, and stay for as long as you like.
Support will be available for those who need it, and there will be tasks to suit all ages. However, note that this is taking place on rough ground so there is currently no easy access for wheelchairs.
YOU WILL NEED
Please wear suitable outdoor clothing and footwear. Gloves may also be useful. If you are able to bring tools that would be great, but you will be responsible for them. The Parks team will also be bringing some tools for those who need them. There will be loos available nearby but no refreshments, so please bring your own. If you are bringing your dog, please bring some bags. We will bring some as well.
LOCATION
The Slades Farm Open Space is in between Ensbury Avenue, in Ensbury Park, and Talbot Woods.
The Community garden area is north of the velodrome, in between the new dog training area and the woods.
There are 4 other local BIG DIG DAYS happening locally on the same day with variable activities and times.
The details and maps for them can be seen here:
https://www.bigdig.org.uk/bournemouthandpoole/
Come along to a garden on the 16th March 2013
Stew Art
