Noyo Food Forest

We are happy to announce that we have selected Gowan Lester to be our new Learning Garden Manager. Born on the Mendocino Coast, Gowan brings a bright array of experience and talents to the job. She believes that organic gardening offers many kinds of nourishment.

Gowan was Artist in Residence at the Mendocino Art Center in 2006, studied art in college and completed Oregon State University’s Organic Gardening Certification, as well as Master Gardener Training. Her gardening experience includes farms ranging from 1/4 acre to 150 acres and she is a strong believer in biological soil fertility, polyculture, and connecting the community to the farm. She is also studying for a degree in therapeutic agriculture.

Her passions in life are gardening and art, and how they come together to enrich people’s lives. Look for her craft art classes in our Sustainable Living Workshop Series, which will include topics such as garden tool making. We invite you to drop by the Learning Garden and volunteer some time in exchange for fresh organic produce – Gowan will happily put you to work!