What is the Adopt-a-Garden Program?
The adopt-a-garden program is a cooperative venture between the Township of Tay and its citizens. This initiative is one way residents can enhance and preserve the gardens throughout the municipality.  Through an agreement with the Township an individual, community or group assumes responsibility for assisting in the maintenance of a garden located on public property.

Participants would adopt-a-garden on a two-year basis (minimum) and would agree to maintain the garden from mid-April through to mid-October. In addition, participants will be provided plants by the municipality each year but will provide all their own tools and labour required for the planting and maintenance of the adopted garden.  If the resident wishes to install perennial plants a list of 'approved' perennials will be provided.  The program includes: parks, roads, streets, outlying areas, boulevards.

What are the program goals?
To educate the members of the community on the basics of horticulture.  To beautify the Township and empower its citizens. To encourage the adoption of existing garden areas on public property rather than the creation of new garden area.  To promote the use of plants that are appropriate for a particular site and not harmful to native ecology.

How do citizens benefit? 
The individual, community or organization will benefit through an increased sense of ownership of your community and through the satisfaction of volunteering.

What do participants need to do?
Participants will be committing to maintain the Township garden adopted for a two-year commitment and would agree to do the following:

• Install plantings
• Keep the garden weed-free
• Cut back & mulch the garden in appropriate seasons
• Remove litter and debris
• Watering the garden as needed
• Remove dead, damaged or diseased plants as necessary

How do I apply to Adopt-A-Garden?

1. Complete the application available through the Township office or print a copy below.
2. Visit the Township office and select a garden. Note your selection on the application.
3. Submit your application to the Public Works Department.
4. Staff will do a quick review of your application.  If approved, the department will mail an agreement to you or your group.
5. Once the two-year agreement is finalized you or your group may start working. Each year a session will be held that will give Health & Safety training to volunteers.

Adopt-a-Garden Application

Gardens Available:
Port McNicoll
Victoria Harbour
Waubaushene
Waverley

Will our efforts be recognized?
A sign bearing the adopting group or individual's name will be placed in the garden.