Meiners Oaks Community Garden

Genuine Sheds is founded on the principles of creating spaces for individuals and families to expand and grow. We are committed to crafting quality studios and sheds, and this has led us to meeting extraordinary people! We work with people who are utilizing the space as a music or art studio, writing corner, launching their business etc, we are always amazed at all that then gets done in the cozy spaces we build together. We are pleased to bring some of these small businesses and creators to light! 

Seeing this community garden grow gives our hearts so much joy! Thank you to Barrie for bringing your vision to life!

What is Meiners Oaks Community Garden?  

GARDEN GOODNESS! 

I am a passionate community builder, wellness advocate, and founder of the Meiners Oaks Community Garden—a thriving, inclusive space dedicated to cultivating connection, sustainability, and local food resilience. We needed a shed on the property to house the communal tools and with the teamwork of the Genuine Sheds build and Blaise Dano’s gorgeous mural, it has become one of my favorite parts of the garden.

What part of your story, what moment in time, led you to where you are today? Is there a particular part of your unique story you want to share?

Originally from New York City, I moved to Ojai about two years ago and started the Meiners Oaks Community Garden shortly after settling in. I spent most of my 20s working on farms across the country, gaining hands-on experience in sustainable agriculture. Later, I spent 2-3 years living and traveling in a converted camper van, visiting a wide range of farming and agricultural initiatives.

What I noticed during my time farming was that while these spaces are often incredibly beautiful and inspiring, they can sometimes feel exclusive—limited to those who live or work there. In contrast, community gardens are not only beautiful, but they also serve as vibrant hubs for connection. I believe it's essential for people to have more opportunities to connect with their neighbors and to learn how to grow their own food. Community gardens sit perfectly at that intersection—nurturing both land and community.

When was your first calling to create spaces for community to gather in nature? Do you remember some of your first experiences with gardening? What did they look and feel like?

When I moved to Ojai, I didn’t know anyone. I spent some time working on a local farm, but quickly realized the intense summer heat made it difficult to sustain that work full time. I started looking for a community garden to join—somewhere to connect with others and continue growing food—but I realized that the kind of space I was looking for didn’t yet exist in Ojai. So when I came across a piece of land just down the road from my house, I decided to give it a try and start one with the help of so many neighbors and friends including Michala Kepple, Morgan Visalli who were there from the beginning and so many other community initiatives like Genuine Sheds.

What does a day at the garden look like? Can you paint a picture with words that lets us into this process?

The day to day really varies on any farm or garden which is what I love about it! It usually starts with watering my bed and maybe some of the perimeter perennial garden. If there’s a workshop or activity people will gather for that. I try and pick up any weeds I see and turn the compost bin and take a walk around and see if there’s anything that needs to be fixed or handled. Usually there will be another member there or neighbors walking by and it’s fun to stop and chit chat.

How has the garden shed become a part of the community atmosphere and what does it hold? 

I love our shed! It holds all of the community tools that are included in garden membership. There’s suggested planting schedule printed out on the inside to help assist gardeners with what will grow well at any given time in this climate. It’s also right in the middle of the property and is so beautiful it’s usually where group photos are taken or people generally go to gather in the shade.

What is your most beloved part of gathering at the garden?

I love seeing what everyone is growing and chatting about how they’re using their produce. I’ve learned so much from everyone just walking around the garden and seeing how everything is planted. And then chatting about how it’s being used.

As you grow and continue as a community beacon what are things you want to do more of, and what are things you would like to transition away from?

I want to have more workshops and gatherings and help both members and the public thrive on their gardening journeys. I’d also love to have more public art on display.

How has your studio/shed helped in the expansion of your mission?

It has helped keep the garden looking tidy and organized. It’s such a great space to hold everything we need to help our gardeners succeed.

Anything else you’d like to share?

Garden beds available! No experience needed—just a love for growing. All ages welcome. Membership is $120 for 6 months and includes a garden bed, soil, compost, water, and shared tools. Scholarships are available.

Meiners Oaks Community Garden is a safe, inclusive space for all—regardless of race, gender, age, ability, or background.
Join us at www.meinersoakscommunitygarden.com