Communities in Bloom

Showing the country how Peterborough shines!

Communities in Bloom (www.communitiesinbloom.ca) is a Canadian non-profit organization committed to fostering civic pride, environmental responsibility, beautification and to improving the quality of life through community participation and the challenge of provincial, national and international competition.

History

Established with the guidance of 'Britain in Bloom', Villes et villages Fleuris de France and 'Tidy Towns of Ireland', Communities in Bloom held its first Canadian edition in 1995, with 29 participating municipalities honoured at the first awards ceremonies on Parliament Hill. The program now includes more than 500 municipalities across Canada and an international challenge involving municipalities from the United States, Japan and several European countries.

Program

The program consists of communities being evaluated either provincially or nationally, by a volunteer jury of professionals on the accomplishments of their entire community (municipal, private, corporate and institutional sectors and citizens) on eight key criteria:

• Tidiness
• Environmental Awareness
• Community Involvement
• Natural and Cultural Heritage Conservation
• Urban Forestry
• Landscaped Areas
• Floral Displays
• Turf and Ground Cover Areas

In Peterborough

Communities in Bloom Peterborough is administered by a volunteer committee, with support from City Council. 

Some Comments from Previous Judges

"Strong community involvement was evident through the many
sponsors, schools and volunteers who came forward to help the
2005 entry." (Quoted by Martin Quinn, 2005)

"The City of Peterborough is to be commended for the five tiered
classification for turfgrass management. Because the system is
based upon both use and visibility, resources, in terms of manpower
and equipment, can be maximized." (Quoted by Matt Rosen, 2006)

"The mix of annuals in planters was particularly attractive because of
the blend of colours and textures." (Quoted by Dave Hilton, 2006)

"Peterborough is fortunate to have such a strong base of volunteers
who are interested in helping in all kinds of activities and programs.
The support for the CIB program by a ‘legion’ of volunteers was really
evident on the judges’ tour." (Quoted by Matt Rosen, 2006)

Preparing for the 2008 Nationals

As a Friend to Communities in Bloom in 2007, 2009 and 2010, we are making plans in anticipation of competing in the 2011 National event.  We continue to benefit from support by individual citizens and corporate groups who have come forward to establish new Community Gardens, plant trees along residential streets and participate in the planning and development of parks and advancing a new Vision for Parks, Recreation and Culture. Our Council adopted new and higher Waste Diversion Standards and diligently promoted Natural Lawn Care programs and other sustainable projects. These are only some examples of the contribution that Communities in Bloom has made in helping us to learn together to enhance and safeguard our common future. These are all treasures that we value. 

Join In. Help make Peterborough the National Winner in 2008. 

For more information, please contact us at cmusclow@peterborough.ca or at 745-1386.