Community Garden Sustainability Evaluation Tool (CGSET) Garden Name*Garden Location*Year EstablishedYour Name(s)*Email* Your role at the gardenYour role at the garden 1. Our garden feels pressure that it may need to move to a new location within the next 5 years.*YesNoUnsure2. Garden participants have opportunities to contact garden leaders and share ideas.*YesNoUnsure3. Our garden has support from neighborhood organizations and/or local governing bodies.*YesNoUnsure4. The majority of garden participants live within walking distance of the garden.*YesNoUnsure5. Our garden has an invasive weed, such as Japanese Knotweed, that affects our productivity.*YesNoUnsure6. Our garden has money put aside for emergency use.*YesNoUnsure7. Our garden has access to sufficient tools.*YesNoUnsure8. The rules of the garden are posted where visitors can see them.*YesNoUnsure9. Our garden has access to a reliable water source.*YesNoUnsure10. Our garden’s soil is currently capable of growing healthy food plants.*YesNoUnsure11. There is a secure place at the garden to store materials so that they cannot be stolen or vandalized.*YesNoUnsure12. Our garden has liability insurance that covers activities at the garden.*YesNoUnsure13. Our garden regularly uses AT LEAST TWO (2) of the following to communicate with gardeners: bulletin board, email, postal mail, phone, website, social media (ex. Facebook).*YesNoUnsure14. All garden participants (ex. members, bed-holders, volunteers) have agreed to a list of expectations.*YesNoUnsure15. Our garden’s soil is tested AT LEAST every TWO (2) years to assess soil health.*YesNoUnsure16. Our garden has a documented long-term strategy/strategic plan (extending beyond one year).*YesNoUnsure17. Our garden has a budget that is maintained by at least one designated member.*YesNoUnsure18. Our garden has a process for re-assigning beds that are untended.*YesNoUnsure19. Our garden actively seeks donations of funds and/or materials.*YesNoUnsure20. At the garden, there is a sign that is visible to passersby that explains how to make contact and get involved.*YesNoUnsure21. Our garden has a compost pile that is regularly maintained and utilized.*YesNoUnsure22. Our garden has a functional rainwater collection system connected to a downspout.*YesNoUnsure23. Our garden has a process for supporting gardeners who are struggling to maintain their beds.*YesNoUnsure24. If there is a problem at the garden, the garden leadership is proactive in responding to it.*YesNoUnsure25. Our garden uses season extension techniques (such as row covers, cold frames, etc.).*YesNoUnsure26. There is a process for orienting new participants to the garden.*YesNoUnsure27. Gardeners feel safe at the garden site.*YesNoUnsure28. Our garden has pest management strategies in place.*YesNoUnsure29. Our garden has access to knowledgeable vegetable growers.*YesNoUnsure30. Our garden allows only organic fertilizers and pesticides.*YesNoUnsure31. Our garden tracks the number of attendees present at garden-related events.*YesNoUnsure32. Our garden leadership holds AT LEAST THREE (3) sit-down planning meetings each year.*YesNoUnsure33. Our garden leadership shares news with garden participants and neighbors several times per year.*YesNoUnsure34. Garden participants reflect the overall demographics of the neighborhood.*YesNoUnsure35. There are regular opportunities for garden participants to hold leadership positions.*YesNoUnsure36. Our garden consistently tracks the amount of produce grown and/or donated.*YesNoUnsure37. Our garden has a process for donating produce to food banks, churches, neighbors, etc.*YesNoUnsure38. The mission/purpose of the garden is posted where visitors can see it.*YesNoUnsure39. Our garden holds open-to-the-public community events AT LEAST ONCE a year.*YesNoUnsure40. Our garden currently uses all available garden beds.*YesNoUnsure41. We are able to afford our yearly garden costs.*YesNoUnsure42. The garden's neighbors (including residents and business owners) are engaged and supportive.*YesNoUnsure43. Our garden uses cover crops to improve soil and reduce erosion.*YesNoUnsure44. Our garden has a written agreement with the landowner allowing the land to be used for gardening.*YesNoUnsure45. Since the beginning of my involvement in the garden, I have seen growth in the number of participants.*YesNoUnsure46. Within the past year, vandalism and/or theft has SIGNIFICANTLY limited the success of the garden.*YesNoUnsure47. In the past year, damage from pests and animals made a SIGNIFACNT impact on our garden.*YesNoUnsure48. There are more than THREE (3) garden leaders who regularly attend garden meetings, work days and events.*YesNoUnsureAdditional CommentsUse this space to provide feedback on the quiz itself or your garden's sustainability.
