Why Ottawa Needs Skilled Horticulturalists (and how you can help)
There is a misconception that landscaping is just "mowing and blowing."
At REWILD, we know the truth: building resilient, ecological gardens requires science. It requires a deep understanding of soil biology, native plant communities, and climate adaptation. We recently learned that the Horticulture Industries Program at Algonquin College is facing potential elimination. This is where our co-owner Jeff received his formal education, and it’s where we look to hire the skilled tradespeople who build REWILD gardens. If this program disappears, Ottawa is at risk of losing its pipeline of qualified professionals who know how to protect our urban ecology.
We are asking our community (and anyone who values skilled trades) to help us save it.
📣 Take Action in 2 Minutes
Option 1: The One-Click Email
Select a decision-maker below. Clicking the link will open your email app with a pre-written subject line and message of support. All you have to do is sign your name and hit send.
(We have pre-filled the email for your convenience, but please feel free to edit the text to add your own voice!)
Option 2: Copy & Paste
Prefer to write your own email, on desktop, or use a different app? Here is the template we are using.
To: svpa@algonquincollege.com, brulec@algonquincollege.com, tiquisv@algonquincollege.com, nolan.quinn@pc.ola.org
Subject: Retaining the Horticulture Industries Program
Body: To the Algonquin College Leadership,
I am writing to express my support for retaining the Horticulture Industries Program. As a member of the Ottawa community, I believe this program is vital for training skilled tradespeople and ensuring the ecological stewardship of our region.
I urge you to vote against its elimination.
Sincerely, [Your Name]
About the Advocates
REWILD Landscapes is an ecological landscape design practice based in Ottawa, Ontario. Co-owned by an alumnus of the Algonquin Horticulture program, our work is grounded in technical horticultural science and a commitment to restoring native biodiversity. We believe that professional training is the bedrock of sustainable land care in the National Capital Region.
