BY: Miwako Chang

Throughout the month of March, we recognize several key parts of our ecosystem. These include the International Day of Forests on March 21, World Water Day on March 22, and the International Day of Zero Waste on March 30. These observances are established to celebrate, raise awareness, and highlight and encourage continued action to maintain, protect, and restore the earth’s resources.

Black Creek Community Farms (BCCF) is a Toronto farm and market garden that grows over 40 different vegetables, with over 100 varieties from around the world that reflect their diverse community. BCCF is proud to be Ecocert certified, a standard for organic certification in Canada. Ecocert is committed to ensuring sustainable production and processes. These include the efficient use of natural resources such as energy, water, air, and oil, social responsibility, and product quality and safety.

BCCF demonstrates it’s continued commitment to current social and environmental challenges through their sustinable practices. These include supporting soil fertility and life, as well as maintaining biodiversity. The local farm manages pests without the use of pesticides and harvests several times per week to ensure the freshest produce possible, often having been picked only 24 to 48 hours prior.

Supporting BCCF is funding the growth of fresh, organic produce and the continuation of sustainable and ethical practices. However, proceeds also support the farm’s community initiatives. This also includes BCCF’s 8 acres of urban green space that houses a variety of animals, birds, and insects. The local farm is a key element to the community, as it brings residents together for educational activities, food programs, seasonal events, and more.

This past year, BCCF ran their Harvest Share program, a produce subscription based on the Community-Supported Agriculture (CSA) model. This idea aims to strengthen the relationships between all contributors to local food system. The organization’s Thursday Farm Stands featured seasonal produce, as well as guest vendors and events.

For more information, visit www.blackcreekfarm.ca.