Trail Community in Bloom is putting out the call for volunteers once again, with two garden upkeep events happening this week.
Led by garden contractor Rachael Brown, the focus remains on keeping Trail’s green spaces vibrant and welcoming.
The first volunteer morning takes place on Friday, July 11, from 8 a.m. to noon, at the Italo Canadese bed, the large garden along Rossland Avenue near the old Star Grocery.
This session will involve light maintenance work, including some minimal weeding, trimming back the ever-enthusiastic potato vine, deadheading flowers, and a bit of pruning to keep things tidy.
Volunteers are encouraged to dress for the weather, bring their favourite gardening tools if they have them, and maybe even a speaker because, as Brown puts it, “weeding to music is just better.”
The second event is scheduled for Saturday, July 12, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., back at Jubilee Park on the Esplanade near the Riverfront Centre.
This morning will focus on gentle garden TLC: light weeding, deadheading, and shaping up the perennials in the large bed by the river.
Brown says it’s a great way to kick off the weekend, spend time outdoors, and connect with others who care about keeping Trail beautiful.
Whether you come solo or bring a friend, everyone is welcome, just remember to come prepared for the weather, rain or shine.
These upcoming volunteer sessions are especially timely, as Trail prepares to welcome this year’s National Communities in Bloom judges, who will arrive in town on July 30 and stay through Aug. 1.
The visit is an important moment for showcasing all the hard work and pride that residents and volunteers have poured into local green spaces.
“If you’ve got a favourite weeding tool or a trusty pair of gloves, bring them along,” says Brown.
“But don’t worry if you don’t, we’ll have a few extras on hand.”
These efforts are part of the broader Communities in Bloom initiative, which this year is highlighting Edible Gardens as its national theme, a timely reminder of how growing food supports sustainability, boosts local ecosystems, and helps fight food insecurity.
