The Valleyview community greenhouse now has a 2,000-litre water tank thanks to funding from a City of Whitehorse environment grant.

The water tank makes it possible to start gardening earlier in the season without depending on the neighbours for a water supply. Several gardeners have been producing food since late April.

The city has been a partner since the greenhouse opened during the summer of 2012.

The city lot was rezoned to accommodate a community greenhouse and garden which is now starting up for an eighth summer of production. The city also provides a low-cost, long-term lease for a token amount of $10 per year.

The water tank facilitates early-season gardening when the ground is still frozen and the city water line is not available.

“We appreciate the environment grant because the greenhouse is now self-sufficient for water from May 1 until September 30,” greenhouse co-ordinator Mike Gladish said this week.

“We have been lucky to have the support of neighbours, but we are no longer dependent on them to allow a garden hose hookup.”

The total water consumption can now be monitored. The cost will be covered through participation fees.

The greenhouse was expanded in the fall of 2018 and now has the capacity for 25 boxes.

All of the boxes will be producing food by early June.

The community greenhouse provides an environmental benefit, but it is also an amenity that adds to the livability of Valleyview, Gladish added.

It has become a focal point during the summer, with at least 40 residents participating.

The larger community also benefits because surplus food is donated to the Whitehorse Food Bank.