This is an optional Innovation & Leadership credit. These credits recognize exemplary practices and performance above and beyond what is recognized in standard credits and may not be relevant to every institution. Scoring in the Innovation and Leadership section is capped at 4 bonus points total.
Credit Language
IN 7: Community Garden – version 2.2
Frequently Asked Questions
Do gardens that are accessible to students and staff (but not the external community) qualify?
No. To count, the garden must be accessible to the external community members.
Do gardens that are situated outside of institution-owned land qualify?
No. To count, the community garden must be situated on institution-owned land.
Example Responses
- Concordia University – Comprehensive response references a great institutional website for the garden. Includes optional information on number of community members reached
- University of New Brunswick, Saint John – Good documentation is provided in the descriptive and URL fields. The linked campus webpage includes a section describing the community garden.
- University of Queensland – Comprehensive response references several community gardens managed by the institution with an informative website. The Notes field includes information on number of community members engaged.
- Virginia Commonwealth University – Comprehensive responses provided. The Garden includes wheelchair accessible plots. Great reporting example of a student-led community garden initiative.
Common Issues Identified During Review
- To count, institutions must host a community garden on institution-owned land that allows local community members to grow their own food. Affirmative responses must be supported.