NOW OPEN every Saturday, July 17th, 2-5pm at the EPA YMCA, 550 Bell Street

EPA regional backyard gardener network

Online application -- CLICK HERE

the backyard gardener network is a resource network for urban gardeners

BGNThe Backyard Gardener Network is a brand new resource for backyard gardeners, community gardeners, and others who are growing food here in the community. Complimentary membership in the Backyard Gardener Network entitles you to be eligible for the following resources:

  • Use of a garden plot at the new Center for Urban Agriculture on Woodland Avenue in East Palo Alto (free free free);
  • Connections to other backyard and urban Gardeners (learn something new and share your expertise);
  • Assistance with becoming a Certified Producer, and the opportunity to sell your produce at the East Palo Alto Community Farmers' Market (share your pride and joy);
  • Use of a full-service indoor greenhouse in East Palo Alto (great for growing starts!);
  • Access to the network's website featuring you and your garden, online gardening forums, blogs and other features (great for sharing your garden with people around the world);
  • Opportunities to apply for mini-grants supporting your growing efforts (money for garden improvements);
  • Invitations to garden parties and other social events (including useful tips and information); and
  • Seed and produce swaps with other gardeners in our community.

BGN
Collective Roots and the Backyard Gardener Network will make it possible for interested growers to sell at the East Palo Alto Community Farmer's Market. In order to be able to sell at the market, local gardeners must be certified by the county agricultural commissioner. During this process, the agricultural commissioner will come to the garden to certify the crops you are growing. This certification will enable you to sell those items at a Certified Farmers' Market.

The Backyard Gardener Network is offering a limited number of mini-grants to members that will cover the cost of the certification process (normally $60), and will permit members to sell at local markets.

How to join

All that's needed to join the Backyard Gardener Network is a completed application. The network is free to all members! You can fill one out online, or print one out, and mail or fax it to us: