2021
Two Miyawaki Mini Forest plots were planted in the Big Pit to explore restoration of the sandy quarry floor using soil-building inputs like wood chips, spent grains, manure, and fungi. Over 1,000 native trees were densely planted in 10m² plots, with species modeled after nearby Sugar Maple/Basswood forests. This marked the beginning of a long-term ecological study and a new phase in the land restoration journey at Abbey Gardens.
2022
Maintenance of the Miyawaki plots included watering during dry periods and selective weeding to reduce competition from unwanted plants. Fencing was installed to protect the young trees from herbivory until they are tall enough to survive on their own. Soil inoculation trials using mycorrhizal fungi were also conducted to assess tree health. These activities supported forest development and enriched the site’s long-term sustainability goals.
2023
Trent University partnered with Abbey Gardens to monitor soil temperature and moisture levels across both Miyawaki plots. This baseline data will be used to evaluate future changes in soil health and forest development as the ecosystem matures. The collaboration is part of a larger effort to guide science-based land restoration decisions and advance sustainable quarry reclamation methods using local inputs and native plant biodiversity.
Our Three Pillars
of a Sustainable Community
At Abbey Gardens, we transform a former gravel pit into a vibrant community hub dedicated to sustainability. Through our three core initiatives, we create opportunities for environmental renewal, hands-on learning, and local food connections. Together, these efforts fulfill our mission of providing ecological, educational, and economic benefits to the Haliburton Highlands.
Environmental Restoration
Our innovative restoration projects include tall grass prairies, mini-forests, and shoreline gardens that rebuild biodiversity while demonstrating sustainable land renewal. Experience firsthand how industrial landscapes can be transformed!
Local Food Systems
We champion local sustainability by connecting visitors with local fresh produce, artisanal goods, and prepared foods. By meaningful connections between growers and consumers, we're building food security and strengthening our community's resilience.
Community Education
We connect all ages with nature through hands-on programs—from EcoExplorers for homeschooled children to summer camps and workshops. Explore heritage breed animals, self-guided trails, and activities that inspire environmental stewardship!
Our Impact
How Abbey Gardens is making a difference in our environment and community.
300
Acres Transformed
20+
Local Producers Supported
5km
of Nature Trails
1000+
Students Educated Yearly
Environmental Impact
✓ Tall grass prairie establishment
✓ Heritage breed conservation
✓ 5km of interpretive trails
✓ Sustainable gardens and growing practices
✓ Pollinator gardens and beekeeping
Education Programs
✓ Forest School program
✓ University partnerships
✓ Community workshops
✓ Children's camps and nature programs
✓ Sustainability demonstrations
Community Growth
✓ Year-round Food Hub
✓ 20+ local producers supported
✓ Regular community events
✓ Volunteer opportunities
✓ Public recreation spaces
— John Patterson, Founder
From barren gravel pit to flourishing garden, our journey shows that with vision and community support, any space can be transformed.
Our Journey
Key milestones in the Abbey Gardens transformation.
2009
John and Thea Patterson purchased 300 acres of land including a spent gravel pit, inspired by Butchart Gardens in B.C. and the Eden Project in Cornwall, UK. This vision to transform industrial land into a green space for the Haliburton Highlands community set the foundation for what would become Abbey Gardens. The first small garden was planted, marking the beginning of the environmental transformation.
2012
The Food Hub construction began in partnership with Fleming Sustainable Building Program, creating a sustainable straw bale building with solar net metering and geothermal energy systems. Heritage breed conservation was introduced with rare Ojibwe Horses through partnerships with Heritage Livestock Canada. Educational programming expanded to include community workshops, and the innovative EcoExplorers homeschool program was launched.
2016
The Little Pit Prairie restoration project transformed over 5 acres of sandy aggregate pit into a tallgrass prairie ecosystem—an endangered habitat with less than 2% intact remnants left in Ontario. The bee yard was established with a beautiful pollinator garden as part of a Canada150 project completed with the Haliburton Highlands Land Trust and Master Gardeners. This marked a significant milestone in our environmental restoration mission.
Our journey from industrial landscape to thriving community hub.
The Abbey Gardens Story
The Transformation
Starting with just one small garden, we began the ambitious project of rehabilitating 300 acres of industrial land. Our team faced the challenge of poor soil conditions and skepticism about growing possibilities in our climate.
Yet, through innovative techniques and community determination, we've achieved what many thought impossible. Each year brought new growth, new learning opportunities, and new ways to engage our community in sustainable living practices.
The Vision (2009)
When retired businessman John Patterson first walked the spent gravel pit in Haliburton, he saw beyond the industrial landscape. Inspired by his visits to Butchart Gardens in B.C. and the Eden Project in Cornwall, UK – both transformed mines turned world-class gardens – he envisioned a similar transformation for our community.
John's vision wasn't just about creating a beautiful space; it was about establishing a place where community members could gather, learn about sustainable living, and connect with nature in meaningful ways.
From Gravel Pit to Green Space
In 2009, we began with a vision to transform a former industrial site into a thriving community space. What started as a barren landscape has become a testament to nature's resilience and community dedication.
Today, Abbey Gardens stands as proof that with determination and sustainable practices, even the most damaged environments can be restored to life.
Our transformation story isn't just about land—it's about creating a living laboratory where everyone can learn, connect, and grow together.
