Wildsight Elk Valley’s food projects highlight the impact of a connected, community-focused network that nurtures sustainable agriculture and food security in our region. This journey begins with seeds—specifically the Red Russian Kale seeds saved by Mary Cosman, a gardener with over 50 years of experience and a passionate advocate for local food systems.
Mary, who has been a member of Seeds of Diversity Canada for 25 years, moved to Fernie in 2005 and joined Wildsight’s EcoGarden Advisory Committee. She quickly became a key figure in the Elk Valley’s local food culture, coordinating community seed swaps, spearheading Garden2Market, and eventually helping to build the Cold Climate Seed Library. This initiative ensures local access to seeds adapted to our challenging climate, preserving heritage varieties for future generations.
Today, Mary’s kale seeds are being used by Evergreens Farm, Wildsight’s newest social enterprise. Evergreens Farm is a hydroponic, community-supported farm focused on producing fresh, leafy greens year-round, even during the harsh winter months in the Elk Valley.
Once harvested at Evergreens, the baby kale is distributed through various restaurants and grocery stores in Fernie, including at Local. The Local store brings fresh produce to the community while promoting sustainable agriculture, supporting small farmers, and connecting people with local food.
Wildsight Elk Valley’s interconnected programs create a sustainable food ecosystem that directly benefits the community. Full circle food initiatives such as this depend on community support. Please consider becoming a member or making a donation to Feed the Need to help sustain a food system that grows locally and gives back generously.