bio for Dr. Dolores Gottenberg
as speaker for the Nanaimo Horticultural Society
on March 10, 2010.

Dolores relocated to Nanaimo in 2006 to be closer to her daughter and family. Having held an interest in farming and agriculture for many years, she joined local agricultural organizations and is presently serving as Director of the Nanaimo-Cedar Farmers Institute, the Island Farmers’ Alliance, the Cedar Farmers Market and is President of Our Neighbourhood Farmers Market.

Dolores brings extensive experience in industry, government, and education to these Boards. She has held senior positions in government and private business and has been a teacher and administrator at the secondary and post secondary levels of education. Since arriving on Vancouver Island, she has established Island VermiTech & Organics Ltd. and operates an urban farm under the name of Dee’s Harbour City Farm.

Over the past three years, Dee’s Harbour City Farm has grown from 2 to 8 garden sites scattered throughout the city. She uses the SPIN method and gardens approximately one acre growing vegetables and herbs. She is a strong supporter of Island agriculture and feels small local farmers should utilize direct marketing techniques to maximize their return. She sells 95% of her produce directly to the consumer at farmers’ markets and through her home/office delivery program.