Submitted by San Juan Islands Agricultural Guild
Overmarsh Farm Commons is an innovative collaboration between the San Juan County Conservation Land Bank and San Juan Island Grange #966. OFC is now accepting applications for the 2025 growing season. Submit your application at https://forms.gle/HTTvpMy99V8VeB977.
The primary goal of this project is to create a cooperative space where growers and graziers can work together to promote sustainable food systems that prioritize soil health, water conservation and regenerative farming methods. OFC will empower local growers by providing access to land, and infrastructure, while simultaneously supporting the long-term health of the land for future generations.
Opportunities for the 2025 growing season
The inaugural 2025 season will serve as a trial year, and OFC is eager to welcome individuals and groups of all experience levels. Available spaces include:
Community garden plots: perfect for individuals, families or groups who want to grow food, learn from others and collaborate in a shared garden environment.
Larger growing plots: designed for commercial growers focused on larger-scale production.
Pastureland: available for graziers seeking grazing opportunities for livestock.
OFC is dedicated to inclusivity, following federal and state non-discrimination policies, and aims to make land access equitable for all community members. For the first season, membership costs are just $30 annually, along with a commitment to volunteer hours. Membership fees may evolve in future years as the program expands.
How to support Overmarsh Farm Commons
Apply: Growers and graziers can apply now to join the 2025 growing season.
Volunteer: Volunteers can participate in community workdays to help shape and maintain the farm.
Donate: Friends of the project can contribute garden tools, supplies or funds to support this important work.
Visit https://sanjuangrange.org/overmarsh-farm-commons.html.
Why Overmarsh Farm Commons matters
Currently, local food sales account for just 3.7% of annual food sales in San Juan County. This dependency on external food systems leaves the islands vulnerable in emergencies, where stores could be emptied in under a week. Investing in local agriculture and gardening strengthens food security, boosts the local economy and builds community resilience.
For gardeners, OFC offers an affordable and supportive way to grow fresh, healthy food while learning and sharing skills with others. For farmers, the program addresses challenges such as high land prices, rising costs and limited access to resources by providing affordable access to land and shared resources.
Support and collaboration
OFC is supported by the San Juan Islands Agricultural Guild and its Farmers-to-Farmland program. This grant-funded program uses a comprehensive approach to facilitating affordable and equitable entry into farming. Partnering organizations on this grant include the San Juan Islands Conservation District, San Juan Islands Food Hub, Northwest Agriculture Business Center, WSU San Juan County Extension, San Juan County Conservation Land Bank and local farmers. Together, these groups provide technical assistance, education, mentoring and market connections to new farmers.
“This is a critical time to invest in our agricultural future,” said Candace Jagel, Ag Guild co-chair. “Together, we can cultivate a vibrant, sustainable food system for the islands while protecting our natural resources.”
A shared vision for agriculture and gardening
Overmarsh Farm Commons is more than a land access initiative — it’s a community-driven effort to secure a thriving, food-secure future for the San Juan Islands. Whether you’re a backyard gardener or an aspiring farmer, OFC offers opportunities to grow, connect and thrive.
For more information, contact Amanda Zee at amanda@sjiagguild.com.
San Juan Island Grange #966 is a grassroots, nonpartisan advocacy group dedicated to building a resilient community on San Juan Island. The Grange programs and policies are consistent with federal and state laws on nondiscrimination regarding race, color, gender, national origin, religion, age, disability and sexual orientation.
