Urban farm project

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An urban farm in Hamilton’s east end is nearly complete. The McQuesten urban farm was first established last year and was developed to bring affordable and healthy food to the community.

The dirt has been dug and the plants have arrived but there is still a lot of work to be done on the almost 2 acre plot. It is located behind St.Helen Community Centre on Britannia avenue west of the Red Hill Valley Parkway and was once used as a landing strip for a small airport.

Patricia Reid is one of the volunteers who spear headed the project about 7 years ago. She says the farm will grow a variety of fruits and vegetables including tomatoes, spinach, kale, green onions and raspberries. It’s produce residents can’t get within walking distance. Once up and running the organic crops will be sold at an on-site marketplace and at the Ottawa street Farmers’ Market. The urban farm also includes an outdoor classroom, which officials expect to be a big hit among local students.

The city of Hamilton has put $350 000 to the project with another $200 000 from various grants and donations. Full-time staff will be working on the farm including an organic farmer, but most of the work will be done by people who live here. Volunteers who want to get involved are asked to just show up but prepare to get dirty.