A neat idea to use a currently unused lot in Blue Ridge has people excited

Amanda James, owner-operator of StayK Gardens and More and the organizer of the Northern
Crossroads Artisan & Farmers Market, which runs monthly at the Blue Ridge Hall, recently
presented to Woodlands County’s Economic Development Committee an idea she had for the
old Briar Patch School site.
Since last year, James has been running her Stayk Gardens business, selling vegetable plants
and other homemade/homegrown products. She kick started the monthly market at Blue Ridge
Hall, which has proved popular. James’ idea for the property where Briar Patch School once
stood was to create a community garden.
James said it could be called the Briar Patch Community Garden to preserve the school’s
history. “The reason I want to keep it under the Briar Patch name is because it’s been that name
for more years than I can google. I would like to keep it.” She said Priar Patch also sounds like a
garden, which fits perfectly.
“StayK Gardens would have no problem being on board getting it going. I have grow boxes that
I build myself, which work extremely well.” James also said she had made some connections in
the area to help create the space but needed “solidified ground” before those conversations
could move forward. “I talk with the seniors committee quite a bit and am also part of the Blue
Ridge League. I’m well versed in who’s available in the community and who wants to help.”
James explained that she had been working with Community Futures Yellowhead East to create
a business plan for the project. Her request to Woodlands County was to gain approval to use
the land. She noted that the gardens would be above ground, meaning things could be moved if
plans changed. “None of my equipment would be permanent. Everything could be lifted off and
gone.”
James said she would build twenty boxes, roughly eight feet by four feet and two and a half feet
up. “For the average person, your reach, without causing your back any problems, is two feet,”
she explained. James added that she had a trailer and several water totes for using the water
station across the road should the water line that went to the school previously no longer be
available.
The twenty boxes would be rented out for the growing season for $40 each, and the funds
raised would be reinvested into the garden to help purchase extra fencing, trellises, and
fertilizer. Most fencing remains on site from the school, requiring only a connection to each side.
James said she would volunteer her time with the project, from fundraising for lumber and
supplies to organizing work parties to prep the space and assemble beds.
Committee member Woodlands County Councillor Jeremy Wilhelm said the idea was neat and
felt there would be community buy-in. “I think the idea is fantastic. I don’t believe we have any
other current projects going into that open space at the moment, and the great thing is that it’s
low impact on that lot regardless,” he said.
“I’m looking to hopefully get some help from Woodlands County,” said James. I would love to
partner with you guys to see this through to fruition.” Committee Chair Patricia MacNeill
commended James for her involvement in the project and desire to bring new life to the Blue

Ridge community. “I’m really interested in the project. That’s where my grandchildren live, so I
certainly want to see (the community) thrive.”
Woodlands County Economic Development Officer Bert Roach said the committee would
discuss the project further as more information emerged. “I think what’s exciting is that the
success of our hamlets is that they exceed far above their reach for the number of people there
because when they have a well-organized event, it’s amazing how many connections and how
many people come out. I see this as being the same kind of impetus, and it’s very exciting to
have a resident like Amanda come forward and present an idea like this because it is the glue
that’s going to hold and build the community together.”
Woodlands County owns the land where the Priar Batch School was located. When asked if
there were any other spots in the community that James knew of for a potential project like this,
James said no. She added that if the project gets the green light, she will steer it and bring on
help from others who want to be involved. “I really want to do this for the community,” said
James. Her vision for the space includes a future greenhouse and a dog park.
In her proposal, James said the project’s objectives included creating a “central gathering point
for residents to come together, fostering a stronger sense of community,” and “encouraging
social interaction.” She listed that youth could volunteer or participate in educational
opportunities, learning essential skills and that seniors could enjoy a therapeutic, recreational
space promoting physical activity and mental well-being.
Once more details are discussed at the committee level, the decision to send a
recommendation to Woodlands County Council will be made. Stay tuned.