04/18/2026
Effective April 18, 2026
CCNA Community Garden: Terms of Use & Policies
France Moore Park, Chatham
The Chatham Central Neighbourhood Association (CCNA) is proud to provide raised garden beds at France Moore Park to foster community growth and local food security. Use of these beds is a privilege granted by the Association and is subject to the following rules and regulations.
1. Allocation of Garden Beds
Board Authority: All garden beds are allocated annually at the sole discretion of the CCNA Board of Directors.
Eligibility: Priority is given to residents within the CCNA geographic boundaries.
Finality: All allocation decisions made by the Board are final. Reassignment of a bed by a gardener to another individual is strictly prohibited.
2. Maintenance & Seasonal Requirements
To maintain the integrity of France Moore Park and the garden's success, participants must adhere to these standards:
Active Gardening: Beds must be planted and active by June 15.
Organic Only: We maintain an organic growing environment. The use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides is strictly prohibited.
Upkeep: Gardeners are responsible for keeping their assigned bed—and the path immediately surrounding it—free of weeds and debris. Weeds must be managed regularly to prevent them from spreading to neighbouring plots.
End of Season: By November 1, all dead plant material, netting, and stakes must be removed, leaving the bed clear for the winter.
3. Community Conduct
Harvesting: Participants may only harvest from the bed specifically assigned to them. Taking produce from other beds is considered theft and grounds for immediate removal.
Waste: All garden waste must be disposed of in designated compost areas or removed from the park. Do not leave trash in France Moore Park.
Structures: No permanent or oversized structures (trellises over 4 feet, fencing, or decorative items) may be installed without prior Board approval.
4. Removal & Termination (The "Safety" Clause)
The CCNA Board of Directors maintains the right to manage the garden in the best interest of the community.
Policy on Removal:
The CCNA reserves the right to terminate a gardener’s access to their assigned bed at any time and for any reason, including but not limited to:
Failure to maintain the bed to the standards listed above.
Abandonment of the plot.
Theft or damage to other beds or park property.
Harassment or disruptive behavior toward other gardeners, neighbours, or park visitors.
Notice: If the Board determines a violation has occurred, the gardener will be notified via email or phone. If the issue is not corrected within 7 days, or if the violation is deemed severe, the Board will revoke access immediately and reassign the bed. All decisions by the CCNA Board regarding removal from the program are final and not subject to appeal.
5. Liability
The CCNA and the Municipality of Chatham-Kent assume no liability for any injury, damage, or loss of produce due to theft, vandalism, or weather conditions. Participation in the France Moore Park community garden is at the gardener's own risk.
