Communities in Bloom judges visit Capreol for national evaluation
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Two national Communities in Bloom judges visited Capreol on Wednesday, evaluating the Greater Sudbury community's participation in the competitive program designed to foster growth in beautification, environmental stewardship and heritage preservation.
Larry Hall, a Communities in Bloom national judge, outlined the criteria for assessment.
'We will be checking the urban forest, the environmental actions that are being taken, historic preservation – which includes both natural and cultural history – and the landscape, which is an important aspect of any community,' he said.
Larry Hall (left) and Christine Isaac (right)
Communities in Bloom national judges Larry Hall (left) and Christine Isaac (right) visit the Greater Sudbury community of Capreol on August 6, 2025. (Alana Everson/CTV News Northern Ontario)
Tour highlights Capreol's strengths
The judges explored several key locations, including the riverfront in downtown Capreol, a private garden in a subdivision and the Capreol Needlework Club, where they viewed quilts and handmade crafts.
Christine Isaac, another national judge, emphasized that the competition extends beyond floral displays.
'It really is about growing your community, blooming your community. It's a great metaphor for that community pride and spirit that grows as we all contribute through volunteerism, beautification, environmental action, and heritage conservation,' she said.
Symbolic oak tree planted at splash pad
A highlight of the visit was the planting of an oak tree at the Capreol Splash Pad, replacing a fallen one. Greater Sudbury Mayor Paul Lefebvre praised the collaborative efforts of local organizations and volunteers in enhancing the community.
'I am just thrilled to be able to support and showcase to the judges the amazing folks that we have in this area who are coming together to create a beautiful community,' Lefebvre said.
Capreol Splash Pad - Oak Tree
An oak tree is shown being planted at the Capreol Splash Pad to replace a fallen one on August 6, 2025. (Alana Everson/CTV News Northern Ontario)
Northern Ontario Railroad Museum sees strategic benefits
Cody Cacciotti, president of the Northern Ontario Railroad Museum & Heritage Centre, highlighted the practical advantages of participating in Communities in Bloom.
'One thing we really like is that we get almost like a third-party audit from the judges. We receive a full detailed report at the end of the showcase, which allows the museum and the town to pursue funding for various initiatives we're looking to accomplish,' Cacciotti said.
Capreol's national category
Capreol is vying for top honours in the national under-5,000 population category, competing against Athabasca, Alta., and Moosomin, Sask.
The winners will be announced in October.
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