Adult Community Education | Free Workshop
The Saanich Fire Department presents a free workshop, part of the FireSmart Program, on how to create more wildfire-resilient gardens that don't sacrifice beauty or biodiversity. With Instructor Bethany Couture.
- Date: Tuesday, 4 August 2026
- Time: 5:30 to 8:00 PM
- Location: The Pavilion at HCP
- Fee: No charge
Pre Registration is required; Register Online
As wildfires grow more frequent and severe, understanding how to design wildfire-resilient gardens is essential for homeowners living near wilderness areas. This practical and engaging class teaches participants to mimic nature's protective strategies through soil and water conservation practices and how to make informed choices about plants, mulches, and groundcovers. This class empowers participants to adapt to climate challenges, take proactive steps to reduce wildfire loss, all while enhancing the surrounding environment.
What You Will Learn
- Selecting wildfire-resilient plants
- Choosing fire-resilient mulches and groundcovers
- Water and soil conservation practices for fire-smart landscapes
- Designing resilient gardens to protect your home
- Ongoing maintenance tips for resilient gardens
Who This Class Is For
- Homeowners and residents near wilderness areas
- Gardening enthusiasts interested in sustainable practices
- Environmentalists and conservationists
- Landscapers and landscape designers
- Community leaders and neighbourhood groups
About the Instructor: Bethany Couture
Bethany is a sustainable horticulturist, permaculturist, and educator from Victoria, BC. She holds a Diploma in Permaculture Design and Education, is a certified FireSmart Landscape Professional and Local FireSmart Representative. She is the instructor of permaculture at the Pacific Horticulture College and of landscape design to the Master Gardeners Training. Through her business, Garden Alchemist, she consults and designs beautiful, resilient and ecologically functional landscapes.
