Bowen Agricultural Alliance

The Bowen Island Undercurrent published an abbreviated version of this story.

Bowen actually has quite a few farmers and growers. To name two: home gardener extraordinaire Reidun van Kervel with husband Bob Kerr. We dropped in last summer at the couple’s place on Harding Road. Reidun served up scrumptious homemade muffins, lemonade and fresh-picked peas and carrots. She has four gardens on 4 ¾ acres, including a giant veggie patch with raised beds, and a peony and rose garden with pond, greenhouse and chickens in back.

How long have you been farming?
Ever since we moved here, in 1980.

How did you get into it?
I thought it’d be cool to plant seeds and eat the food I grew. I guess because I like healthy eating and I was picky about what the kids ate. Bob is “Mr. Dirt,” and likes “building” the garden. I plan, plant, weed and harvest.

What do you love about it?
Being able to walk out the door and pick my supper. Being able to dry, then replant some of the seeds the next year.

Why should folks buy local?
A million reasons. It’s good for the soul. It’s good for the environment. I think people should eat food native to the land they live on. I’m trying to use squash, chard and kale into the winter in a more creative way. This is the climate where they grow well. When you grow this way, you’re in tune with your environment.

What’s your pet peeve these days when it comes to food and agriculture?
Pesticides and un-organic gardening that drains into our waterways and destroys the integrity of the soil.

What’s your favourite island-grown fruit or veggie to enjoy in August?
Tomatoes—in Greek salad.

Can islanders buy from you?
We eat what we grow and give it away to friends.