Kamloops is "Best Blooming Community in Canada" in 2010.

Kamloops, BC - The City of Kamloops, a participant in the Circle of Excellence category of the 2010 National Edition of Communities in Bloom, received a 5 Bloom rating and a special mention for the Community Gardens Expansion Program. Kamloops also received the Outstanding Achievement Award for Urban Forestry, and the Best Blooming Community Designation for 2010.

Following their evaluation of the community, volunteer judges Wendy Maurer (British Columbia) and Jim Baird (New Brunswick) wrote:

'The City of Kamloops is committed to Community Gardens. The city has been active for a number of years in supporting community gardens and decided to double the number of plots by 2011. It is well on its way, with over 240 plots now available in locations throughout the community. The City ensures that water pipes are installed, compost provided and fencing installed. It works with local businesses to ensure the gardeners are ready to go. Volunteers undertake most of the day-to-day operations.

The results are impressive. The citizens and the environment both benefit from this aggressive expansion of community gardens in Kamloops. This is a significant commitment to local food production that other communities will be envious of. Kamloops has demonstrated that it is possible.'

Media Contact:
City of Kamloops
Gay Pooler
250-372-3242, 250-372-3220
gpooler@kcbia.com
scook@kamloops.ca

Communities in Bloom
514-694-8871
www.communitiesinbloom.ca
IMPORTANT: To obtain photographs or for more information email bloom@cib-cef.com