Purpose

The FFGA Community Garden at Plantation Succour exists to strengthen Sint Maartens food security, build community, and restore our relationship with the land through respectful, sustainable growing.

These guidelines protect the garden, the heritage site, and the experience for every member.

These guidelines are a living document and will be updated over time as the garden grows and we learn together.

1) Membership & Access

• A valid FFGA membership is required to rent and use a garden plot.
• Your plot is for food production and learning (not residential use).
• Members must follow all posted signage, staff/volunteer instructions, and safety notices.

2) Community Values (How We Treat Each Other)

• Be respectful: no harassment, discrimination, bullying, or aggressive behavior.
• Keep the garden family-friendly (language, music volume, conduct).
• Help create a welcoming space for all ages and backgrounds.
• If conflict happens, address it calmly or ask a garden coordinator to support.

3) Organic & Earth-Friendly Growing Standards

To protect soil health, water quality, and community safety, the garden follows organic-first practices.

Allowed (examples):

• Compost, worm castings, mulch, seaweed/kelp-based inputs
• Natural pest management (hand-picking, barriers, neem/insecticidal soap where approved)
• Crop rotation, companion planting, biodiversity-friendly methods

Not allowed:

• Synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or chemical fertilizers
• Burning trash/plant waste
• Dumping oils, paints, chemicals, or greywater

If youre unsure about a product, ask before using it.

4) Plot Care & Maintenance

Members are responsible for:

• Keeping their plot actively cultivated and reasonably weed-free
• Maintaining paths around the plot so others can pass safely
• Storing materials neatly (no scattered debris)
• Removing damaged stakes, broken pots, and sharp objects

If a plot is neglected for an extended period, FFGA may:

1. Contact the member
2. Offer support/a recovery plan
3. Reassign the plot if there is no response or improvement

5) Water Use & Conservation

Water is precious in Sint Maarten.

• Each allotment tenant/member is responsible for providing their own water for their plot.
• If requested, FFGA can advise and support members in setting up a simple rainwater catchment system (where feasible and in line with site rules).
• Use water responsibly and avoid waste.
• Prefer early morning or late afternoon watering when possible.
• No leaving hoses running unattended.
• Report leaks or unsafe setups immediately.

6) Composting & Waste

• Use designated compost areas for approved organic waste.
• Keep plastics, glass, metal, and non-compostables out of compost bins.
• Take personal trash home if bins are full.

7) Tools, Shared Spaces & Infrastructure

• Return shared tools clean and in the correct place.
• Respect tool checkout rules if a sign-out system is in place.
• Do not remove garden property from the site.
• Keep shared areas tidy: seating, wash stations, compost zones, and pathways.

8) Guests, Children & Group Visits

• Guests are welcome when accompanied by a member and when the garden is open.
• Members are responsible for their guests behavior.
• Children must be supervised at all times.
• School groups and large visits should be booked in advance.

9) Safety Rules

• Wear closed-toe shoes when working.
• Use tools safely and store them properly.
• No open fires.
• First aid: report injuries to a coordinator and follow posted emergency steps.

10) Respecting Heritage & Nature at Plantation Succour

Plantation Succour is a heritage landscape.

• Do not disturb stone walls, historic features, or protected areas.
• Stay on designated paths where required.
• Respect wildlife and biodiversity (no harming animals, nests, or habitats).

11) What You Can Grow (and What Needs Approval)

• Food crops, herbs, and approved fruit/medicinal plants are encouraged.
• Trees, permanent structures, or major changes to the plot require approval.
• No invasive species.

12) Structures, Fencing & Plot Modifications

• Small, temporary supports (stakes, trellises) are allowed if safe and tidy.
• Permanent fencing, sheds, or foundations are not allowed without written approval.
• Any structure must be hurricane-aware and removable if needed.

13) Animals

• No roaming animals in the garden.
• Service animals are welcome.
• If animals are part of a planned program, they must be managed by FFGA.

14) Communication & Community Participation

• Members are encouraged to join workshops, volunteer days, and community events.
• Important updates may be shared via WhatsApp, email, and posted notices.

15) Enforcement (Fair, Clear, Consistent)

FFGAs goal is always education first.

• 1st issue: friendly reminder and support
• 2nd issue: written warning with a clear fix-by date
• Continued issues: loss of privileges or plot reassignment

Serious violations (violence, theft, deliberate damage, repeated harassment) may result in immediate removal.

16) A Simple Member Promise

By joining FFGA Community Gardens, I agree to:

• Grow responsibly and protect the soil
• Respect the heritage of Plantation Succour
• Treat others with kindness
• Keep the garden safe, clean, and welcoming

Contact

Contact Us [HERE] for questions, approvals, or support, contact the FFGA team via the official FFG channels.