By Joanne Dorr
The Haldimand Press
HALDIMAND—Now that the April showers are behind us, many are turning their thoughts to warmer days and the promise of cultivating gardens and watching their perennials awaken after a long gray winter. If you are one of those people, there are two horticultural societies in Haldimand County you may want to learn more about. Both of these groups, one in Dunnville and the other in Caledonia, offer gardening and environmental enthusiasts opportunities for ecological education and community participation.
The Dunnville and Haldimand horticultural societies have a long history of addressing local environmental issues and actively participating in public beautification projects. The Dunnville Horticultural Society (DHS) opened its charter in 1929 and the Haldimand Horticultural Society (HHS) followed later in 1984. Their shared affiliation with the Ontario Horticultural Society (OHA) connects them with a wide range of resources and to over 240 similar groups in Ontario.
OHA is a volunteer charitable organization that provides leadership, education, and promotes interest in gardening and related environmental issues with affiliated horticultural societies, garden clubs, and like-minded organizations.
Their goals are to provide recognition, awards, and grants; and to develop and support programs encouraging gardening, community beautification, environmental enhancement, and conservation. Both DHS and HHS collaborate on events and share similar perspectives about the benefits of volunteerism and membership.
Deb Zynomirski, Past President of DHS, explains, “Our volunteers benefit from great friendships and connections, a chance to contribute, and a little exercise.” Zynomirski elaborates on this by saying that by planting and maintaining community gardens, volunteers can feel a sense of civic pride.
DUNNVILLE—One example of a community garden planted by DHS.
Current President of HHS, Elsie Eubank, echoes these sentiments: “Volunteering gives you a chance to give back to your community and to connect with other community groups. Most of all it makes you feel good to see the beautiful gardens in your community and know that you are part of it.”
In addition to this there are terrific learning opportunities for members at both clubs.
Both DHS and HHS offer members a chance to learn from special speakers and share knowledge with gardeners who have a wide range of experience, while also developing new friendships.
Each of Haldimand County’s horticultural societies have their own unique membership programs. To learn more about becoming a member or volunteer opportunities, contact your club of choice as seen below.
