Who: Fairview Gardens
Where: 22 acres in Goleta, CA
What: The Center for Urban Agriculture at Fairview Gardens is a California non-profit organization that was established in 1997 to preserve and operate Fairview Gardens. Fairview Gardens is a certified organic farm that grows a wide variety of fruits and vegetables. The site of Fairview Gardens has been a farm since 1895 and is now preserved in perpetuity through an agricultural conservation easement. Its mission is to preserve the agricultural heritage of this 100-year-old farm; to provide the local community with fresh, chemical-free fruits and vegetables; to demonstrate the economic viability of sustainable agricultural methods for small farm operations; to research and interpret the connections between food, land, and community well being; and to nurture the human spirit through educational programs and public outreach both on and off the farm. Fairview Gardens also offers an apprenticeship program. Apprentices work on the farm and gain hands on experience in organic farming, sustainable food systems, and agricultural education. For more information on Fairview Gardens go to www.fairviewgardens.org .
Why: Erik Stenberg and Fancy De Leon run the Fairview Gardens stand at the Santa Monica Wednesday Market. They both completed the Apprenticeship program and are passionate about staying connected to farming and their community, and knowing where their food comes from. They love the Wednesday Farmers Market and interacting with customers. They say the shoppers in Santa Monica are well educated on the issues of eating locally and appreciate high quality produce. Be sure to stop by and say hello to Erik and Fancy at the Wednesday Market and be on the lookout for winter squash, broccoli, cauliflower, green garlic, and other winter veggies coming soon!
