COPE partnership to launch Fort Erie community garden at library site
April 18, 2026 at 4:23 AM
Libraries have long planted the seeds of learning, but now Fort Erie’s main branch will also be home to actual, physical seed planting.
Fort Erie council has approved a plan to partner with local organizations to create community gardens in town. The first location will be at the Fort Erie Public Library’s Centennial branch, which follows an expression of interest period that saw Community Outreach Program Erie (COPE) respond.
As a result, staff recommended a partnership between the municipality, library and COPE.
“Based on the complementary nature of the two proposals, staff are recommending a collaborative partnership between the two organizations for an initial two-year term,” the report said. “At the conclusion of each term, the town will reissue an expression of interest to the community to provide opportunities for additional organizations to participate in the program.”
The library proposed using youth and adult volunteers to help run the garden, which could also incorporate food education lessons for kids.
COPE, meanwhile, suggested it could provide additional volunteers, and use the community gardens to provide fresh produce for local families in need.
The implementation of a community gardens program follows the town’s previously approved Climate Change Action Plan.
The report said community gardens align with the plan, given they “contribute to local food security, promote sustainable food systems, support community engagement, and provide educational opportunities related to healthy eating and environmental stewardship.”
Mayor Wayne Redekop welcomed the report and the arrival of the gardens.
“This really checks a lot of boxes, I’m glad that it’s moving forward,” he said.
The area has had vandalism issues in the past and there were some concerns that the gardens could worsen the problem. However, Redekop said he believes the increased activity around the area as a result of the gardens may actually reduce the opportunity for vandalism.
Staff will be seeking financial support from local businesses and granting organizations. The report said they’re hoping to have it installed by Earth Day, with planting starting in late May.
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About The Author
Luke Edwards
Luke Edwards is a longtime Niagara community journalist who has covered a variety of beats, including business, agriculture, the wine industry and politics. When not writing, there's a good chance he can be found at a baseball diamond or curling rink.
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