The UNBC Hydroponics Project

A hydroponics project launched at UNBC in Winter 2025, funded by FeedBC and the UNBC Green Grant, and conceived by 2nd year Environmental Studies student Madi Tokarchuk. Aimed at testing the feasibility of growing fresh, local produce using simple hydroponic technology, this program, located inside the Thirsty Moose Pub on the UNBC campus, is a collaborative initiative designed to explore year-round sustainable food production in urban environments. Hydroponics, a soil-free growing method, uses nutrient-rich water to grow plants, offering a potential solution to food security in areas with limited growing conditions. The produce, grown by three separate units, will be sold directly to the Thirsty Moose Pub, with some being donated to the NUGSS Food Bank - you can't get any more local than that!

CLICK HERE to Listen to a radio interview about the project.

SGU Dome Greenhouse

The SGU Dome Greenhouse, built in 2012, is an eco-friendly, sustainable growing space on the UNBC campus that was conceptualized and led by student Cameron Bell with Students for a Green University. It supports research and educational activities related to plant biology and environmental sciences, fostering year-round plant cultivation and offering a controlled environment for students and researchers to explore sustainable farming and horticultural practices.

13 years on, in the Summer of 2024, SGU received a Green Grant to revive the Dome Greenhouse, conducting repairs and holding workshops for students to learn how to grow their own food.

Enhanced Forestry Lab (EFL) at UNBC:

The Enhanced Forestry Lab (EFL), opened in April 2000, is dedicated to supporting research and teaching in controlled environmental settings at UNBC. It provides space, equipment, and technical support for both internal and external clients, facilitating various research and educational initiatives. The lab, located in Building 12 on the north end of the UNBC campus, offers services that cater to forestry and environmental studies, including specialized greenhouse technologies. The lab is designed to foster collaboration among faculty, students, and external researchers, and it is a vital resource for projects in sustainable forestry, plant biology, and ecosystem management.

Rotary Community Garden 

The Rotary Community Garden at UNBC provides gardening space for individuals who might not otherwise have the opportunity to grow fruits and vegetables. Established through a collaboration with the David Douglas Botanical Garden and local Rotary Clubs, the garden offers plots for rent, promoting community engagement and sustainable food practices.

REAPS Gardens

The Recycling and Environmental Action Planning Society (REAPS) operates gardens at UNBC focused on organic gardening, composting, and waste reduction. These gardens serve as educational tools for students and community members to learn about sustainable food production, waste management, and ecological conservation. They donate their produce to places which serve vulnerable, food-insecure groups in Prince George, such as St. Vincent de Pauls.

David Douglas Botanical Garden

The David Douglas Botanical Garden at UNBC features native and exotic plant species, offering a peaceful escape and educational insights into Northern BC's ecology. The garden serves as a hub for research, recreation, and community growth, promoting the use of plant material viable in northern British Columbia.

PGPIRG Gardens

The Prince George Public Interest Research Group (PGPIRG) manages a community garden at UNBC, located beside the UNBC Residences, providing raised beds and seeds/plants to students and community members. The garden focuses on sustainable agriculture and local food production, promoting food security and community engagement through organic gardening.