A Feasibility Study for Urban Edge Agricultural Parks - SAGE

Ardenwood Historic Farm is the remaining 205 acres of what was - in the late1800’s – a 6,000-acre farmed owned by George Patterson. The original Pattersonfamily house still stands as a central feature of the preserved site, which is nowunder the jurisdiction of the City of Fremont.ManagementIn 1985, the East Bay Regional Park District signed a renewable 25-year agreementwith Fremont to operate Ardenwood as an educational farm focused on turn-of-thecenturyfarming techniques, trades, and lifestyle. The Park District started offeringeducational programs at Ardenwood in 1986.The East Bay Regional Parks District operates 65 regional parks, recreation areas,wilderness, shorelines, preserves and land bank areas covering over 95,000 acresin the East Bay, 90% of which are “protected and operated as natural parklands.”Additionally, it maintains trails (within and inter-park), swimming areas, fishingdocks, family and youth campsites, golf courses, picnic areas, play areas, andwedding, meeting and banquet facilities. 13Site DescriptionA green oasis within urban Fremont, Ardenwoodis a low-lying, flat farm with areas of landmarkeucalyptus woods that can be seen from milesaway. The “Core” historical area, encompassingapproximately 75 acres, is centered around thegrand Victorian Patterson House, and alsoincludes barns, a granary/demonstration area,café, and gazebo/function areas. The centralvisitor area is also home to educational displays,historic farming equipment, a horse-drawnrailway, livestock, and an heirloom garden.The outlying agricultural areas are planted with grain and forage crops for theanimals and for educational programs, as well as with seasonal crops of corn,pumpkins, and vegetable row crops. A produce stand is located near the mainentrance, selling produce from on-site as well as from elsewhere. Windbreaks framethe fields, walnut trees shade the main entrance driveway, and the central area isalso well planted with trees.ProgramsArdenwood’s programming includes interpretive programs for organized groups(schools, camps, etc.) and public educational activities and festivals.13 http://www.ebparks.org/dropdown/aboutus.htmDRAFT 1.6.05 43