The Pendleton Community Garden project is a public partnership between Umatilla County Public Health, the City of Pendleton, OSU Extension, and the Umatilla County Master Gardener Association.
The Community Garden aims to address key health outcomes based on Umatilla County’s 2022–26 Community Health Improvement Plan, which identified five health priorities for the area, including: addressing food insecurity, providing access to health and food education, increasing youth and senior programming, and building community around healthy food practices.
The founding institutions of the garden believe addressing these outcomes will lead to a better quality of life for Umatilla County residents.
Mission Statement
Pendleton Community Garden’s mission is to provide an inclusive garden space for Umatilla County residents to plant, learn, and grow together in healthier, happier, and connected communities.
Vision Statement
We envision a vibrant community garden that strengthens food availability, inspires learning, and cultivates well-being—a place where neighbors connect, cultures are shared, and Pendleton’s spirit of resilience is rooted in the soil we grow in.
Values
Community Well-being
We believe health grows best together. Our garden supports physical, mental, and social well-being by creating a safe, welcoming place for neighbors to connect and thrive.
Learning & Growth
Every season is an opportunity to learn. We encourage curiosity, shared knowledge, and hands-on education that empowers people to grow food, skills, and confidence.
Sustainability and Respect for the Land
We honor the land that sustains us. Our practices prioritize environmental care, responsible growing, and long-term stewardship for future generations.
Belonging & Collaboration
This garden belongs to all of us. We value inclusion, partnerships, and shared responsibility-every voice, culture, and contribution matters.
SPONSORS
The Pendleton Community Garden would not be possible without the support of community gifts and philanthropic institutions across Oregon who work to ensure that community-based projects that benefit the betterment of our communities (such as this garden) are funded. We are grateful for the generosity of the following donors:
Eastern Oregon Coordinated Care Organization (EOCCO)
History: Design & Planning
Our plan includes 25 boxes measuring 8’x4’ and built to 3’ in height for more comfortable gardening and ADA access. We will have room to add more boxes in 2026 pending funding. We also include a composting station, a children’s learning garden, Master Gardener Demo Garden, a tool shed and paths, benches and a gathering space for community use.
Project Build: WaterFirst things first: water. The City of Pendleton has trenched the site and added piping to bring in water to four frost-freeze spigots placed around the garden. 50ft hoses will be ran from each to serve each quadrant of the site. This work is completed. |
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Project Build: FencingIn early February 2026, a 6 ft. black chain link fence went up around the garden! There will be a back 10 ft. loading gate and a 4 ft. entrance gate at the parking lot. |
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Project Build: BoxesWe have contracted with local volunteers and companies to provide lumber and build boxes. This work will be done in conjunction with the high school’s FFA program students. Phase one includes 25 boxes which fill half of the garden. We are seeking sponsors to complete this work with another 25 boxes in 2026. |