Establishing a community garden in Miawpukek First Nation, Newfoundland, Canada: Research brief on soil contamination challenges and solutions

Abstract

Indigenous peoples are disproportionately affected by declining food security, particularly in isolated communities like Miawpukek First Nation (MFN), Newfoundland, where geographic isolation limits food access. MFN is only one example of many rural Indigenous communities attempting to establish sustainable local food systems to improve food security. This study aimed to develop safe community garden sites at MFN while addressing potential soil contamination. Soil testing at proposed garden sites revealed inorganic arsenic (As) as the only contaminant of concern, with levels exceeding Canadian agricultural guidelines. To address this, Hügelkultur-style raised beds with imported soil were used. Potatoes grown in these beds had undetectable As levels, making them safe per Health Canada (HC) standards, whereas potatoes grown in the contaminated soil exceeded HC’s lower As guideline limit. Peeling these potatoes removed detectable As, leaving the flesh safe to consume, while the skins contained levels above HC recommendations. Kale grown in both raised beds and native soil remained within safety limits, suggesting certain crops may be less prone to contamination. These findings stress the importance of soil testing prior to establishing community gardens, especially in rural and remote areas. Food security ensures safe food access for all, but for Indigenous communities, it also fosters food sovereignty and resilience.