Since 2009, DIG has led the effort to support local community food production and food security by:
DIG is a citizen-driven nonprofit that brings together individuals and organizations who are involved in community gardens and/or food related projects. We share a common interest in promoting the sustainable production of and access to sustainable local foods.
DIG supports local community food production and food security through shared resources, mentoring, and technical and developmental assistance.
November: DIG initiated at the request of Durham garden project coordinators.
Ongoing: Established the Annual Garden Project Tour, highlighting garden projects, local farms.
August 23rd: DIG officially incorporated as a not-for-profit organization under the name Durham Integrated Growers for a Sustainable Community (DIG).
June 5th: DIG's mission and mandate officially endorsed by the Region of Durham Council.
Partnered with the City of Oshawa to host the first Urban Agriculture Symposium at Durham College, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange among stakeholders.
Ongoing: Established the DIG YouTube Channel, a platform for sharing educational videos and highlighting the work of DIG members.
February: Launched the "How to Start a Community Garden" workshop series, providing essential guidance to aspiring gardeners.
Ongoing: Initiated "Table Talks in Oshawa," fostering community dialogue on urban agriculture and food security topics.
Ongoing: Developed an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Guide, promoting sustainable and environmentally friendly gardening practices.
Ongoing: Established the You Grow Durham Fund, providing financial support to new garden projects in the region.
Publication: Released "Digging for a Just and Sustainable Food System: A Scan of Urban Agriculture Policy," a comprehensive report examining policy frameworks for urban agriculture.
Award: Received the Durham Environmental Advisory Committee's "Education & Communication Award" in recognition of DIG's efforts to raise awareness and understanding of urban agriculture.
September: Black Duck Wild Rice Excursion to hear the story and experience indigenous wild rice harvesting first hand
March: Hosted the "Resilient Communities Regenerative Landscapes Symposium," a gathering focused on sustainable land use and community resilience.
Member of the Agriculture Sector Climate Adaptation whose Agriculture Sector Climate Adaptation Strategy was chosen as a finalist for the 2019 EDCO (Economic Developers Council of Ontario) Awards of Excellence
Spring: DIG successfully worked with Food Communities Network (Canada) and Ontario Community Growers Network to advocate opening of community gardens during COVID 19
Spring: DIG advocated with Durham Medical Officer of Health & staff for quick development of COVID 19 guidelines for community and allotment gardens
Spring: DIG identified as liaison between Durham Health Department and community gardens in Durham Region
Spring: Released our Virtual Garden Tour on YouTube offering a virtual exploration of diverse garden projects across Durham Region.
June: “What’s Your Story Morning Glory” Photo Contest
DIGs launches teespring online merchandise shop.
“Starting a Veggie Garden at Home: A Beginner’s Guide” Released online and shared with other GTA region.
DIG Annual Garden Project Tour back in person
First DIG garden project survey / interviews completed
July: DIG celebrates 10th Anniversary of the Annual Garden Project Tour
Successfully launched and began using Google Workspace for non-profits
Participated as panelist at the Barrett Centre Unconference on Urban Agriculture
June: Website Redesign Launch to better serve the Durham community
Research project to investigate sustainability of school gardens.
Educate, Advocate and Consultation : Continues to consult with local governments on urban agriculture policies, advocating for supportive frameworks that encourage sustainable food production and food security.
Membership is voluntary and open to all local individuals and organizations that agree with DIG’s vision, mission, mandate and objectives, and are willing to actively participate.