If you’ve ever admired the vibrant flowers in Sicamous planters or paused to appreciate the colour and care in our public gardens, you’ve seen Jaelene Halverson’s work in full bloom.

Jaelene is the District of Sicamous’ one-and-only gardener. She is a true floral artist and hard worker who brings life and beauty to our streets each season!

Her journey with the District of Sicamous began in 2016 as a temporary summer labourer. She rejoined the district team in 2022, this time learning to operate the Kubota and clear snow from sidewalks across town during winter months. The following year, Jaelene stepped into a full-time maintenance position, expanding her snow removal skills by taking on the hill routes in a two-tonne plow truck.

“This is my third season doing the gardening around town,” Jaelene shares. “I got the position as gardener last year, and was extremely happy – I do enjoy gardening, and it’s nice to see when all the bedding plants are planted.”

In her role as gardener, Jaelene has taken on the mission to keep Sicamous blossoming. From crafting eye-catching flower beds to staying ahead of relentless weeds, she combines creativity with hands-on expertise.

“I get to try different things with the bedding plants,” Jaelene shares. “Lots of things I have learned by joining garden sites online, or researching certain plants … Sometimes, a simple idea works the best.”

Jaelene hops back into the snow removal crew during the winter months, putting her earlier experience to good use to help keep roads and sidewalks safe and accessible for residents and visitors.

Before making Sicamous home, Jaelene spent a decade in Tumbler Ridge working outdoors on the blast crew at an open-pit coal mine through frigid -40°C winters and sweltering summers. She’s spent much of her career working outdoors, so she’s become accustomed to the elements.

Outside of work, Jaelene takes care of making her own home just as beautiful as the rest of town, planting her pots and hanging baskets. “It’s really nice once they’re in full bloom,” she says. “Then, you can sit back and enjoy.”

Residents often thank Jaelene for the beauty she brings to the community, and with good reason. The next time you spot a colourful garden or overflowing planter that brightens your day, there’s a good chance Jaelene had a hand in it. Be sure to say hello to Jaelene if you see her out and about!