Community farms on shaky ground amid MetroWorks financial troubles
Common Roots Urban Farm, a beloved community and market garden in Halifax and Dartmouth, is facing uncertainty after its parent organization, MetroWorks, filed for bankruptcy on March 6. As a result of the financial troubles with MetroWorks, the farm’s assets were seized, leaving its future hanging in the balance.
Nicola Nemy, the co-ordinator of the Halifax site located at the bottom of Bayers Road, expressed shock and disappointment at the sudden turn of events. The closure of the farm has put all the hard work and dedication put into the gardens at risk.
Hilary Lindsay, who oversees the Dartmouth farm at the Nova Scotia Hospital, emphasized the urgent need for a new parent organization to step in and support the farm. Despite the challenges, there is hope as various organizations and individuals have expressed interest in helping to save the farm.
Common Roots Urban Farm offers a variety of gardening plots at its locations, including common, community, and market gardens. The common areas are open for exploration by anyone, while the market garden focuses on growing food for sale and donation. The community garden allows individuals or groups to rent plots to grow food for themselves and their community.
Lindsay highlighted the significance of the farm to the community, especially for newcomers who rely on the opportunity to grow their own food. The farms serve as a vital space for connection, community building, and solace, especially during challenging times.
In addition to the farm, MetroWorks also operated social enterprises such as Stone Hearth Bakery and The Ampersand Café, along with the Cunard Learning Centre and employment skills programs for newcomers. The closure of MetroWorks has had a ripple effect on these initiatives, further underscoring the importance of finding a new home for Common Roots Urban Farm.
As efforts continue to find a new parent organization to support the farm, the community remains hopeful that the gardens will continue to thrive and serve as a beacon of growth, connection, and sustenance for all who visit.
