Here’s how to reserve a garden plot:
1. Read and agree to the 2026 Member Agreement and Application.
2. Select the membership type, and pay for your 2026 membership.
Your membership includes:
- One 4’ x16’ raised garden bed
- A communal seed bank with non-GMO varieties
- Two metal trellises with posts for vining plants, if desired
- Three communal gardens planted with strawberries and herbs for member use
- Garden tools and equipment to use at the Community Garden
- Organic straw for mulching
- City water
- NEW (2025) 5 pounds of worm castings to enrich soil fertility in the spring
- NEW (2025) organic winter cover crop seeds, added to all beds in the fall
- Organic products for pest and disease management
- Organic soil nutrients are added to all beds in the fall if needed
- Organic foliar sprays upon request
- Monthly workshops, demonstrations, and member potlucks
What is the Fairfield Community Garden (FCG)?
This project was conceived in 2022 with the goal of fostering community engagement and sustainable gardening practices during the COVID-19 pandemic. Gardening would offer an opportunity to be outside, connect with nature, and engage in a productive activity that would help reduce anxiety, depression, and stress. It would also serve as a space where neighbors could connect safely, fostering a strong sense of community.
In 2023, an ideal site was selected at the west end of O.B. Nelson Park, where the old swimming pool once stood. The area is flat, sunny, and measures 100’ x 100’. A partnership was formed with the City and the Sustainable Living Coalition, LLC to create the first City-sponsored garden. The design includes a tall protective fence, City water, 40 raised garden plots filled with high-quality raised bed soil, mulched pathways, and a large tool shed equipped with garden tools and equipment. Native flowering shrubs were added to a perimeter garden.
Who can use the community garden?
A garden plot can be leased for the growing season for a small fee on a first-come, first-served basis. Low-to-moderate income households may be eligible for a sponsored membership. Non-profit and educational organizations are invited to participate as well. Members can grow food for their household or donate it to a charitable organization or a local food bank. Membership fees help cover the cost of maintaining and improving the garden site.
Meeting the Needs of the Community
A community garden makes nutritious food more available and can reduce grocery bills for families. It brings neighbors from different backgrounds and ages together in a way that encourages community pride. In addition to providing healthy food, exercise, and quality outdoor time, gardening inspires people to be more creative in all areas of life. It is a great way to introduce children to science and help them understand ecosystems. A survey of the Fairfield community has shown there is strong interest in having more space to grow healthy food and learning more about sustainable gardening.
Need to Connect?
For more information about the Fairfield Community Garden, or if you have difficulty applying for a community garden membership, please get in touch with fairfieldiowacommunitygarden@gmail.com