Palmerston residents will soon be able to plant fruit and vegetables in sections of local parks and reserves, following the release of Council’s draft Edible Pocket Garden Policy for public comment.  

“There are many positive aspects to having this smaller style of share-gardening: it increases the amount of fresh produce freely available to the community and creates opportunities for those that may not otherwise have access to fresh fruit and vegetables,” said City of Palmerston Mayor, Athina Pascoe-Bell.

“This style of gardening allows members of the community to engage in gardening activities when they may not normally have the space, and it encourages them to get involved in environmental sustainability, as well as increasing the use of green spaces throughout Palmerston,” she said. 

Council has created a draft policy with some very simple guidelines that will allow residents to nominate a location in their local park or reserve to plant edible plants or trees. 

“We are currently asking residents to provide suggestions for improvements or ideas for inclusion on this policy, so we can implement this project. 

Once established, the produce will be freely available to all; with the plant or tree to be maintained by the responsible resident. It is an initiative that is completely led by the community,” said Mayor Pascoe-Bell.

The draft Edible Pocket Garden policy may be viewed online at www.palmerston.nt.gov.au 

The community can provide feedback on the policy to the Community Engagement Team:

• Online at www.palmerston.nt.gov.au
• Email: palmerston@palmerston.nt.gov.au
• By post: PO Box 1, Palmerston NT 0831
• In person: Delivered to Council’s Office, 1 Chung Wah Terrace, Palmerston 

Submissions close 5pm, Tuesday 4 September 2018.