Pesticide-Free Zone Signs Support Local School District’s Garden Programs

Via the Comox Valley Regional District:

The Comox Valley Regional District (CVRD) is encouraging residents to support pesticide-free lawns and gardens for the sake of the environment and the health of our community, by purchasing a “pesticide-free zone” sign for $10, with the proceeds going to the school district #71 garden program. 

By displaying a "pesticide-free zone” sign in your yard, we can work towards a safer future without the hazards associated with the unnecessary use of pesticides and support the municipal bylaws that restrict their use. 

 

The CVRD’s “NatureWorks” education program provides information on the use of pesticide alternatives for people in municipalities with pesticide bylaws, and for others who simply want to know more about creating pesticide-free lawns and gardens. As part of this program, the pesticide-free zone signs offer an opportunity to spark conversation about the use of pesticides and about a safer future with non-toxic alternatives.  

“The pesticide-free sign campaign is a great partnership opportunity for the school garden program,” said Angela Holmes, school district #71’s sustainability coordinator.  “The money raised from the sale of the signs will assist in funding essential program supplies. The garden program provides multiple benefits for school children that include a hands-on, experiential learning opportunity, leadership development in environmental stewardship, and connection with nature, healthy lifestyle and nutrition. These signs also provide a larger community value in the promotion of pesticide alternatives and beneficial insects that are a natural pest control in our ecosystem.”   

At eight inches in diameter, the aluminum enameled signs will not rust and will retain the bright colours for years and also come with a sturdy stainless steel stake. Each sign purchased comes with a “NatureWorks” pamphlet which provides helpful information on how to maintain your pesticide-free landscape and messaging to help spread the word about the benefits of pesticide-free spaces.  

The signs will be available to purchase at the following retail locations while supplies last: 

• Home Hardware – 610 Anderton Rd, Courtenay
• Art Knapp Plantland – 2855 Wentworth Rd, Courtenay
• Lake Trail Community Garden (Sunday community events) – 805 Willemar Ave, Courtenay
• Quality Foods – 2275 Guthrie Rd, Comox
• Anderton Nursery – 2012 Anderton Rd, Comox 
• Delphine Flowers & Garden – 2781 Dunsmuir Ave, Cumberland

For more information on the use of pesticide alternatives and to link to the municipal bylaws, visit www.comoxvalleyrd.ca/pesticidealternatives.