Growing Roots

Sammamish Valley’s 21 Acres Sows Seeds of Inspiration

The members of 21 Acres know what it means to turn lemons into lemonade or see the sweet potential in a honeybee. Patience and hard work will yield a healthy crop. The Friends of Woodinville Farmers Market proved their optimistic assurance when they purchased what is now known as 21 Acres from King County Parks and Natural Resources in 2005. At that time, they were desperately searching for a permanent location for the local farmers market and eagerly invested in the property, located in fertile Sammamish Valley, just outside of Woodinville.

Brenda Vanderloop, 21 Acres’ public relations manager and garden site coordinator, recalls the “invasive weeds, blackberries and trees that rested in the unused space.” The large plot of land, formerly known as Kaplan Farms, was overgrown with wild brush, but local agricultural enthusiasts saw potential and began making big plans for the property. Since the investment, 21 Acres’ volunteers have sown both seeds and love into transforming the plot. Where once stood a neglected plot of land, now rests a symbol for positive and healthy living through sustainable, environmentally-friendly farming practices and a strong sense of community. Read more.