Duration: Weekly sessions on Thursdays from May 30th to Aug 8th, 2024 (11 weeks)
Hours: 1.5 hours per week: 12:00 – 1:30 pm
Type: Learning Garden Cohort Member
Reports to: Gardens Manager
Starting Date: Gardens orientation on Thursday, May 23rd, 2024

Application Deadline: Thursday, May 9th, 2024

Embark Sustainability is an independent, student-centred not-for-profit based out of Simon Fraser University that catalyzes student sustainability (un)learning journeys for the next generation of leaders. Embark’s 35,000+ members include all students enrolled in an SFU undergraduate or graduate degree program. Our mission is to create space for transformation by catalyzing student sustainability journeys that centre justice, equity, decolonization, diversity and inclusion. We do this by engaging SFU students in programs, events, and other initiatives that spark dialogue and cultivate action to address systemic challenges within our climate and food systems.

About the Role

Burnaby Learning Garden Cohort Members play an integral role in the operation of our Learning Garden at SFU Burnaby. Participants will learn about growing local organic produce, develop gardening skills, meet people interested in gardening, and have the opportunity to share their knowledge with the SFU community. Each garden session starts with knowledge sharing from our Gardens Manager, followed by hands-on garden care.

All levels of skill and ability are welcome for this garden learning opportunity, no previous experience is needed. Ideal candidates should have an interest in gardening, a willingness to get their hands dirty, and be committed to collaborating in the garden’s care from May 30 to August 8 (11 weeks).

Weekly gardening sessions will be held with the Gardens Manager and a small number of volunteers, during which each member will care for their assigned garden beds, assist with general garden maintenance, and keep a respectful distance from other people. Learning Garden Cohort members will also be expected to visit their garden bed for maintenance 1-2 additional times per week. This is a unique opportunity to learn and practice urban gardening in your very own plot with the support of a master gardener and educator. 

Responsibilities

• Care for the Burnaby Learning Gardens and occasionally the Student Union Building Garden with the support and guidance of Embark Sustainability’s Gardens Manager.
• Assist with the maintenance of the Burnaby Learning Garden.
• Actively participate in seeding, transplanting, watering and harvesting vegetables with the other garden cohort members.
• Water and maintain the designated garden bed as needed (1-2 times per week, weather dependent). 
• Follow the university-wide Communicable Disease Plan, and steps followed by Embark Sustainability, by staying home when sick.
• Provide your feedback through Learning Garden Cohort Feedback Survey

Requirements

• Availability at SFU Burnaby on Thursday afternoons.
• Currently an SFU undergraduate student, graduate student, or Embark Sustainability associate member.
• Commitment and willingness to get your hands dirty.
• A desire to work with an engaged team of people!
• A commitment to visit and maintain your veggie plot.
• A maximum of 3 gardening sessions can be missed, as we typically have a long waitlist of students wanting to be involved in the cohort.

Perks

• All materials, including seeds, soil, and tools will be provided, free of charge.
• Free, fresh produce, grown by your own two hands! Or, you can choose to redistribute it to the SFU Community Free Fridge at the SUB.
• You’ll receive instructions and support from Embark Sustainability’s experienced Gardens Manager.
• Learn when to plant crops, how to take care of them, and get hands-on experience. 
• Make a positive contribution to a local and sustainable food system.