A Summer of Growth…And Not Just the Plants

As signs of fall sneak up on us, some gardeners might dream of delicious root veggies like parsnips. But did you know that parsnip leaf sap blisters your skin if exposed to sunlight? Avoiding that was one bit of garden know-how that our summer Farm Hand Erin learned at the Downtown School Farm. 

This summer, two trusted team members—Marissa and Erin—worked with us through the Canada Summer Jobs program. This is our eleventh year successfully applying for this grant, and like many in the non profit sector, we are very grateful for it.

If you know our regular farm or school programs, you may know our summer stars. Marissa is the Garden Educator & Grower at the Mamquam School Garden, and Erin teaches the Grade 10-12 Farm Studies program at Howe Sound Secondary. We caught up with them to hear what they’ve been up to since the school ended in June.

Marissa at the Downtown School Farm. Look at those flowers!

In summer, it’s not just students growing taller. With kids on vacation and Marissa in the Grower role, she has watched the beans, sunflowers and other plants grow too in the MESY Garden. She also had more time to collaborate with Downtown School Farm Manager, Harriet on improving production at our school farm gardens. Marissa told us they’ve been looking for the sweet spot between supporting the weekly harvest boxes and the farm stand. This has included delivering table flowers to their mint deliveries to Fox & Oak, along with promo cards for the farm stand. The stand is busier than ever so hopefully at least some are also Fox & Oak donut fans. 

Summing up her work, Marissa says, “It’s been really special to watch the support from the community grow as we grow and make the most of the space we have. I’m excited for what our little space can do for anchoring Squamish’s passion for supporting local food producers.”

Erin at the Downtown School Farm. Delicious-looking harvest!

Meanwhile, Erin seemingly can’t get enough of the school grounds! Though she teaches at the school, she wanted to work as a Farm Hand as she loves being outside in summer and was inspired to learn more to better teach her students and support Harriet when the students are on the farm. 

She said the Canada Summer Jobs program has given her experience in how a farm runs—experience she uses preparing her Farm Studies program. So, it’s not just the plants or the farm that gains from her hard work and enthusiasm, it’s the students too. A bit like a summer job that keeps on giving!

This summer, Erin’s highlight has been watching the change in production. Now in growing season four, she says the amount of food coming out of the space is even more than last year. They even grew a cantaloupe this year. Who knew! She has also enjoyed trying new recipes for the weekly harvest box inspirations, which has introduced her to new vegetables.

Sadly for us, Erin and Marissa will age out of the Canada Summer Jobs Program before next year. But as Erin also shares, she’s “excited for someone else to get to experience all the amazing learnings I had over the last two summers.”

Squamish CAN is grateful for the Canada Summer Jobs funding which significantly increases our community impact. All while ensuring young workers learn new skills, build community connections and have incredible work experiences that will support them in their next careers journeys.

Our summer team, Erin, Marissa and Harriet. Thanks for making the farm bloom!