Acorn Farm – I Can Grow

An exciting new environmental project led by the Foundation.

The £6.2 million capital build programme has begun at St Columb’s Park for a unique urban growing space within the City.

258 families in Derry and Strabane have already been rolling up their sleeves on their growing journey.

The participating families have taken the first steps towards growing their own food, with equipment provided and some expert mentoring from Council’s newly appointed horticulturalist and a team of conservation volunteers, that will run over two growing seasons.

The project has brought together young and old – from the little ones who are passionate about doing their bit for the environment, to those who wish to pass on their experience to the next generation.

The future is bright....

Plans for the Acorn farm beside St Columbs Park.

Meet the Acorn Growers

Aine & John

As a Primary 1 Teacher and mum of an energetic 9 year old, Aine Kivlehan, has a great grasp of the positive impact of growing your own on children and family life.

Having done a little bit of growing in the past, Aine was so excited to see the Acorn Farm, I can grow Project’s call out for interest to people in the Derry City and Strabane District area and signed up to be part of it. Since then, Aine and her son John have really embraced growing together; reusing old wiring and containers to nurture their very own fruit and vegetables and taking great care of the seeds in the raised bed supplied by the Project horticulturalist.

‘John really loves checking on the veg and watering the plants and I’ve enjoyed getting some tips from the horticulturalist which I’ve passed onto friends. It’s lovely being able to lift something from your back garden and bring it into the kitchen to cook for dinner.’

Meet the Acorn Growers

Aine & John

As a Primary 1 Teacher and mum of an energetic 9 year old, Aine Kivlehan, has a great grasp of the positive impact of growing your own on children and family life.