Our Place
Boreal Gardens: A Living Legacy of Learning about Food Security
Boreal Gardens is a permaculture farm where Indigenous wisdom and traditions come together through food, storytelling, art, and ceremony.
Nestled within the boreal forest, Boreal Gardens is more than just an experimental permaculture farm—it is guided by Elders, and offers a platform for learning, healing, and creative collaboration across all generations and backgrounds.
The Heart of Boreal Gardens
Boreal Gardens is the home of Garry Oker, a Creative Design Director, community leader, and member of the Doig River First Nation, whose artistic and cultural expressions are deeply woven into the landscape. It is also the home of Paulette Flamond, Region 7 Director of the Métis Nation BC, an advocate for Métis culture, economic development, and Indigenous entrepreneurship. Paulette has been appointed to the Minister's Advisory Council on Indigenous Agriculture and Food Security for British Columbia.
Their shared vision has shaped Boreal Gardens into a hub of cultural expression, permaculture design and food security.
Our Approach: Cultivating a Sustainable Future
Guided by sacred geometric design principles, we are cultivating a self-sustaining food forest that integrates with the natural environment. The land features:
✅ 20 Hügelkultur mounds
✅ Raised garden beds including over 30 types of gardens and structures
✅ Native and traditional plants thriving within the boreal ecosystem
By applying Indigenous ecological knowledge and regenerative permaculture techniques, we are building a year-round food system that aligns with nature.
Our Vision for the Future
To extend our growing season, we developed:
🌱 A 26 sq. ft. growing dome
🌱 Three 100 ft. hoop houses
🌱 Sacred geometric gardens for berries, sweetgrass, and wildflowers
Beyond agriculture, Boreal Gardens is evolving into an immersive cultural destination featuring lodging, workshops, guided tours, and community and corporate events and as a public venue rental. Our passion is to create a sustainable, thriving space where permaculture practices, and creative expression come together to inspire future generations.
Immerse Yourself in Art & Music at Boreal Gardens
Boreal Gardens is not just a farm—it is a creative retreat where visitors can step into the world of art, music, and storytelling. The property includes an arts studio and paint shop, offering an interactive and immersive experience for guests who want to explore their creativity.
🎨 Book a one-on-one or group session with Garry Oker, where you can dive into artistic and musical expression inspired by Indigenous traditions.
🎶 Explore Garry Oker’s visionary art: View his work here
Testimonials
We had an incredible day at the Boreal Gardens with Garry and the team he has put together. We were learned a lot, we drew inspiration and we were treated to incredible food all day. The grounds are beautiful, it's a very peaceful place. I think our team really had a fulfilling day, can't recommend highly enough.
- Bryn Gabriel
I had a great time at the Boreal Gardens. Garry is an incredible speaker, I could have listened to him all day. We made tea from the ingredients growing on the grounds and it was the best tea I've ever had. The trip to the Tse'Kwa caves was surreal, and we had delicious bison burgers. The food was good!
- David Collins
Boreal Gardens is a really special place, and Garry provided a full day of special experiences for us. The variety of the activities was really impressive: we toured an ancient cave, listened to live music, learned about Dene culture, learned about Dene medicine and mushrooms and the food was delicious. Thank you for the day, Garry!
- Rob Gagnon
Whether you're seeking healthy food and sustainable gardening techniques, looking to unleash your creativity through painting, art, and music, or simply wanting to savor foraged tea by the campfire while sharing stories, Boreal Gardens provides a serene and inspiring space to reconnect with nature, culture, and your inner self.
Join us in our journey!