Mark and Gemma Wenner, landowners in the Frydenhoj neighborhood on St. Thomas, grew increasingly frustrated at how large quantities of garbage were being discarded on their land. After several unsuccessful attempts at deterring the littering, including the installment of signage and cutting the bush back from the property line, the Wenners decided that a greater effort was necessary.
The Wenner’s goal is to completely halt the littering and, further than that, to foster a sense of pride among the residents in the community. This mission would birth the first co-op community garden on St. Thomas.
“The space is a work in progress, but shortly after advertising the availability of lots for people to rent and use in creating their own personal gardens, we received an immense response from the community. We have had people of all ages and all walks of life join the cooperative, including retirees and medical professionals. Everyone seems to have their own motivation for pursuing their personal gardens; for some it is a therapeutic outlet for the maintenance of mental and physical health and for others is it an opportunity to grow food that is pesticide-free and cost less than grocery store brought produce”, said Gemma Wenner.
Shortly after the establishment of the cooperative garden, the Wenners began to see a transformation of the culture within their community. The picturesque views of the garden and the surrounding water have encouraged more walkers among the residential neighborhood, which has offered opportunities for collaboration and friendships to form.
“We began this project in December and have collected an enormous amount of trash. As time has passed and there continues to be more and more improvements to the space, we are seeing less littering. I think this cooperative gives people pride. Since we have cleared out the road, less garbage lines the street. People enjoy passing the garden daily to admire the progress. It’s inspiring,” said Gemma Wenner.
Eventually, the Wenners hope to work in tandem with the farmers associated with the cooperative to sell their surplus of produce to the larger community. There are still a few lots remaining for eager individuals who are ready to begin their personal gardens. For additional information, Gemma and Mark Wenner can be contacted at gemmawenner@gmail.com and markwenner79@gmail.com.
“We encourage the territory to continue to create more garden spaces in our neighborhoods. It is a small effort that makes a huge difference,” said Gemma Wenner.
