It was 1998 when Hugh moved into the original River Cottage in Dorset, to start growing and rearing some of his own food. 'River Cottage' has since grown and developed, but continues to stand for the same principles of increasing self-sufficiency, food sustainability, and the consumption of local, seasonal produce.

The idea of Landshare came about after Hugh helped a group of families in Bristol set up allotments on some derelict land owned by the council. He was then further inspired by Incredible Edibles Todmorden and a garden share scheme in Transition Town Totnes. Hugh and River Cottage created Landshare in order to give everyone across the UK the opportunity to share space and grow their own.

Since its launch through River Cottage in 2009, Landshare UK has grown into a thriving community of more than 60,000 growers, sharers and helpers. We are delighted to be working closely with our UK partners to learn from their experiences and to make Landshare Canada a great success.

Other supporters

Canadian Organic Growers (COG) is a national charitable organization (13014 0494 RR0001) with members in all regions of Canada. COG is connected to the regions through eleven regional Chapters, four affiliated organizations, and to the international organic community through membership in the International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements(IFOAM).

COG's membership is diverse and includes farmers, gardeners, processors, retailers, educators, policy-makers, and consumers. Not all COG members run certified organic operations, but they share a vision for a sustainable bioregionally-based organic food system. Our members believe that organic food production is the best choice for the health of consumers and producers, for the protection and enhancement of the environment, and for the sustainability of the food production system. In fact we believe that the survival of our country and even of the planet depends on it.

Mission: To lead local and national communities towards sustainable organic stewardship of land, food and fibre while respecting nature, upholding social justice and protecting natural resources.

COG is excited to help growers from across Canada connect with land, resources and other growers–join the growing movement!