Challenges and Solutions

The three main challenges faced in the delivery of this project have been difficulties in: i) finding adequate spaces for the fruit trees where they would be properly maintained, ii) planting in city parks, and iii) community availability.

Adequate Space and Maintenance: Initially, Community Coordinators approached private-public landowners about planting fruit trees in their green spaces. These included churches, co-op housing, businesses, community centres, schools, community gardens and apartment complexes. Interest was high at some locations. However, at many sites, there were concerns about maintenance issues, increased liability through greater public usage of the space (in the case of apartment complexes) or through injury from falling fruit (in schools), and availability of space. This created the need and desire to plant in city parks, where space is abundant and used by many. Community Coordinators found that schools were not an option due to recurring concerns about maintenance and liability issues. Many churches and businesses in the partner neighbourhoods did not have adequate space for plantings, even though interest in the project and its goals was high. Several co-op housing and apartment complexes were approached; some of these immediately decided they wanted to be part of the project, and others were not interested due to a perceived possibility of greater trespassing (to get fruit) on the property.

The solution to these issues was to "cast the net wider" and invite more groups or settings to become involved. It was also apparent that LifeCycles and community leaders could provide more detailed information on the goals of the project, timelines, and models of other community organizations with green spaces taking part in this or previous similar projects in order to allay fears. A pamphlet with concrete and clear information was created.