Nanaimo has honoured local food security and community-development advocate Craig Evans by renaming the food garden at Five Acre Farm Community Park as the Craig Evans Community Garden.
“As a driving force behind Nanaimo’s food security and environmental stewardship for over 30 years, naming this garden in Mr. Evans’ honour is a tribute to his unwavering commitment to growing healthier, more connected communities. His legacy will continue to flourish in every seed planted and the food in which the community will enjoy,” said Mayor Leonard Krog.
Evans is a recipient of the city’s Patron of the City award, and his accomplishments include founding the Nanaimo Recycling Society, Nanaimo Community Gardens, the Nanaimo Foodshare Society and the VIU Farmers Market. He also co-founded the Growing Opportunities Farm Community Co-op and has served on various boards and committees focused on environmental protection and equitable food access.
City council endorsed a concept plan for 933 Park Ave. in January that lays out a vision for the site including improved public access, a soft-surface trail and boardwalk with educational signage and seating, a nature-play area and community gathering spaces.
