The fields are previously market gardened fields - deer fenced with drip irrigation for 2/3 of the fields. There are 45 x 50-ft beds (9000-sqft in total), some which have been tarped for the winter. The irrigation is run on well water that draws well for the space. Nine existing beds are already dedicated to garlic, but would come available in July. Another six beds are tarped but have yet to be formed/ rock picked. Land owner would want to use 6 to 8 beds for their own use. Some use of farm equipment (BCS) could be discussed. An outdoor, uncovered wash station is also available for farmer. This would be a good opportunity for a beginning farmer to try out market gardening on a part-time basis. Approximately 15-25 hrs of week to farm intensively including going to market. Land owner is open to some mentoring if the farmer is inclined. Land is 8 kms from downtown Courtenay. The owners house is adjacent the garden site. The farmer would have to be comfortable and respectable with sharing the common space, including some beds in the garden.
It would be nice to see the garden used for the 2024 season since it's all set up and could present the perfect opportunity for a newer farmer to try out the market garden business. Current farmer / land owner will take the season off since she has a baby due in April. There is a small possibility the space could also be leased for the 2025 season.