Off the Mat Kingston
Project 2010/2011:
The Greening of Market Square
Off The Mat Kingston is a small collective of community members who intend to lift yogic philosophy and theory off of the yoga mat and out into the world through conscious, local activism.
OTM Kingston’s “Greening Market Square” initiative aims to get more trees planted in the city’s Market Square. Although there are presently several trees nearing the outer limits of the Square, none are planted within the Square itself. We propose the planting of trees along the periphery of the Square while honoring the accessibility needs of market vendors setting up their weekly stalls and of buyers supplying the market by way of large shipping vehicles. The demands of other seasonal events, such as the wintertime skating rink and the summertime Busker Festival, will also be held in respect.
When achieved, our initiative will have numerous benefits. Most importantly, the trees will provide much needed shade during hot summer days, as well as shelter from the elements. Given that the overwhelming majority of vendors are farmers who work the land, it makes great sense to provide them with some green to enjoy on market days. Furthermore, the trees will create greater living beauty in the Square, adding more earthly interest to the space while encouraging habitat for local birds.
In addition to the planting of trees, we are also proposing the installation of benches beneath the trees, which will encourage social interaction within the community, making the space more accessible to adults with children and persons with disabilities.
In summary, OTM Kingston’s “Greening Market Square” initiative will bring environmental, functional, and aesthetic benefits to our local community. For more information on the project, or to participate, please contact the Off the Mat Kingston Team.
Recent News:
OTM Kingston has just been awarded the Trailhead Eco Award in support of its current initiative, “Greening Market Square”. A very special thanks to James Malcolm and the Trailhead Team for their very generous support. Check out their webpage for more information on the award: www.trailheadkingston.ca/eward.html
OTM Kingston Team
Michelle Girouard
michelle.girouard@gmail.com
Sandy Sousa
sousa@sympatico.ca
Carolyn You
you.carolyn@gmail.com
www.offthematintotheworld.org/community
www.trailheadkingston.ca/eward.html