In partnership with the City of Red Deer, the Common Ground Garden Project (CGGP) is a multi-phase, brownfield redevelopment project, located at the former Electric, Light & Power site in the southwest corner in the Capstone development area. The project site street address is 5581, 45 St, Red Deer - T4N 1L2. The office address is 5550 - 45 St, Red Deer, T4N 1L1 in the Riverlands Business Centre (Unit G11, Office #6). CGGP consists of a number of interactive, accessible, gardening spaces designed to be move-able. The project intends to increase food security, to encourage social enterprise, to share knowledge, and to create social connection. Common Ground Project acknowledges the Indigenous traditional territories represented by Treaty 6 and 7 as the land the project is situated on. This land is also acknowledged as an historic Metis gathering site. The CGGP aims to work together with Indigenous people in building a welcoming and inclusive community.
Mission: fostering sustainable food security, connecting to the land, sharing seeds of knowledge, and growing an inclusive community.
We value Community – Growth – Connection
CGGP is an urban farming project which is located in Red Deer and works to address local food security in Central Alberta while creating a safe and vibrant public space that offers accessibility, inclusion, sustainability, and fellowship. The 4 acre city-owned Capstone location offers ample volume to grow a variety of foods for the benefit of local food banks, soup kitchens, social agencies, families and individuals to create a safe and accessible space to everyone in the community while encouraging social enterprise. Common Ground Garden Project creates regular volunteer opportunities as well as educational workshops, encouraging mental and physical well-being by spending time in a natural environment.
A preliminary concept drawing on the layout of the site is below. The 2021 growing season involved the development of the site, planting Garden A and several containers, as well as education and engagement opportunities. The 2022 growing season builds upon this original design with the addition of a squash mound, season extending "hoop house", large-scale composting area, an outdoor kitchen, and painting of multiple art murals on the adjacent building and two storage sea cans! The site is generally open to the public Friday mornings during the growing season (approx. May through October) from 9am to 12pm. Otherwise, by workshop or special event - see the ReThink Red Deer events calendar HERE.
If you would like to be a contributor or volunteer, please contact commonground (at) rethinkreddeer.ca