Park of the Month: Val Vista and its Community Garden

Rediscover the natural world in Pleasanton's sole community garden at Val Vista Park. 

Located in the southwest corner of the park, the garden is an ideal place to watch the sunset and think.

"This community garden was a plan by the city and the community had a lot of input on what they wanted in this park - the community garden being one of them," said Kathy Southern, community garden coordinator.

The garden first sprouted in 2006 and now has 33 patches, each about 225 square feet.

"We are hoping to expand it next year and have some half patches," said Southern. "Adding a few more will help people get in a garden sooner." 

The community garden is not just for people without yards. Many at Val Vista participate because they like being part of a gardening community. 

"I already have a garden at home and volunteer at a school garden, but to have a large sunny plot that I can really 'farm' is super," said Liz Sufit. "The community aspect is very important to me - to meet other gardeners, share tips and advice, and share both work and produce adds a whole fantastic dimension to a very therapeutic activity." 

A Val Vista patch comes with an annual fee, which goes for garden essentials such as water and wood chips. Some of the gardeners grow food for local food banks and kitchens.

"I believe our group is a special one where we get the opportunity to give back to our community while also enjoying ourselves immensely," said Patti Joki.

Gardeners are responsible for keeping their patch and adjacent paths free of weeds year-round. The city provides a green-waste container four times per year and a compost area is managed by the gardeners. Patch owners must participate in quarterly cleanups.

"I feel like I have accomplished a lot when I spend time working in the garden turning over the soil, planting vegetables and, yes, even weeding. Being outside in the morning's cool and fresh air is really pleasant," said Joki. 

Southern said spots at the garden usually open up at the beginning of the year. 

Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis and only Pleasanton residents qualify. Gardeners must sign a Path License Agreement and pay a non-refundable fee of $100 per year and another $100 refundable deposit.

Prospective gardeners who are not issued a patch are placed on a waiting list. For more information, contact Kathy Southern at ksouthern@ci.pleasanton.ca.us.