A sensible use of Christchurch's empty space

It is so rare to come across any sensitive initiative coming out of government that would do anything to help citizens develop resilience.

The only vestige of hope in the future in responding to present and future events comes from LOCAL government.

Edible Forest for Christchurch?

The Canterbury District Health Board is suggesting that parks and plots around Christchurch be transformed into edible gardens

This following item from the Chrsitchurch Press dates from January

Land could feed city

Mayor Bob Parker has given his support for a sustainability initiative which could see a food forest incorporated into the proposed Avon River Corridor.

the Press,

24 January, 2013

On a recent trip to Christchurch's sister city Seattle, the Mayor was treated to a tour of the Beacon Food Forest project.

A food forest is a carefully constructed ecosystem which substitutes edible plants, shrubs, trees and groundcover in place of conventional forest plants.

The system is layered, with tall fruit and nut trees, shrubs of berries, climbing edible vines, and strawberry groundcover (for example).

Anyone can help themselves to edible harvests, and anyone can contribute to the forest maintenance as it is meant for public use.

The idea fits eco-advocate Kevin McCloud's dream of seeing Christchurch become a productive and green city.

The Beacon Food Forest in Seattle is a 7-acre development on public land. Run by the community for the community, the forest is still in its early stages.

When complete, it will provide free fruit, vegetables and nuts to anyone who wants to harvest it.

Mayor Bob Parker said the forest was a "brilliant programme".

"I love the food forest idea, " he said. "Veges and fruit tend to come in plastic wrap from a supermarket these days."

He hoped the forest could be incorporated into the proposed Avon River Corridor - land soon to be owned by the Government.

The forest would fit seamlessly into the existing proposal which called for cycle and canoe ways, activity areas, and wetland reserve.

"I think this is what Christchurch is naturally moving towards. The Government is making the call on this land, but if they consult on this, I would be more than happy to raise this [food forest] as an idea for that land."

Existing backyard fruit trees and veges gardens could be included in a forest development.

"That's part of the red zone story, the legacy of the people who owned that land before the earthquakes, " he said.

Concerns had been raised in Seattle about people taking more than their fair share, but the nature of the programme is that anyone can take what they need. If all the food is gone, the project has been successful.

"This is a 21st century idea on a grand scale."