New solar-powered greenhouse project aims to combat food insecurity in Shelburne County

The Community Garden and Foodshare Association of Shelburne County is making significant progress on a volunteer-run project that aims to provide the community with access to fresh produce year-round. Recently awarded $142,158 from the province through the Department of Environment and Climate Change’s sustainable communities challenge fund, the association is working towards constructing a new solar-powered and geothermal greenhouse.

Michael Kozak, the association’s president, highlighted the importance of combating food insecurity by growing various forms of fresh produce that will be distributed to those in need. The project also involves donating to the local food bank, which has been struggling to keep up with high demand in recent years.

The greenhouse, which will be entirely heated and cooled by energy from the sun and earth, has the potential to produce approximately 2,000 kilograms of food per year. It will be built near the local high school on land donated by the municipality of Shelburne. Volunteers have been diligently clearing the grounds, and construction is set to begin soon, with the project expected to be completed by summer.

With a focus on supporting local producers and creating sustainable food systems at home, Kozak emphasized the importance of ensuring access to fresh, nutritious food for all community members. Henry Penn, the association’s project manager, highlighted the significance of such initiatives for rural communities that are often disconnected from major grocery chains and distribution systems.

The association’s efforts in sharing produce from outdoor garden beds last fall demonstrated the community’s appreciation for fresh food. Stanley Jacklin, the mayor of the Town of Shelburne, expressed confidence in the positive impact of the greenhouse project on the community, emphasizing the need for increased self-sufficiency in food production.

Looking ahead, Kozak shared plans to build additional greenhouses on the land, create paid positions within the association, and collaborate with local farmers to expand the food sharing project to include proteins and dairy products. The greenhouse will be named in honor of John Davis, a local volunteer who founded the group before his sudden passing in 2024.

As the project progresses, the Community Garden and Foodshare Association of Shelburne County continues to work towards its mission of providing fresh, locally grown produce to the community, promoting food security, and fostering resilience in the face of challenges.