WESTFORD — The Conservation Commission approved a proposed expansion of the Westford Community Gardens during its Oct. 14 meeting, allowing the garden to accommodate additional members as demand for plots continues to exceed availability.
Following discussion of the proposed expansion, commissioners voted to approve the additional space for the garden at Day Field on Graniteville Road and formalize a buffer zone around the neighboring community apiary.
The expansion will increase the garden by approximately 35 feet, creating space for up to 19 additional 15-by-15-foot plots. The proposal comes as the garden continues to experience high participation and retention rates. According to garden representatives, approximately 92% of members returned this year, while another 25 to 26 people remain on a waiting list.
The proposal was developed with consideration for future growth, accessibility, and the continued agricultural use of surrounding land.
Rather than expanding farther into the property, organizers proposed extending the garden alongside its existing area. Representatives said the location would provide easier access for older gardeners, while preserving opportunities for a future farmer to use the remaining agricultural land at Day Field.
The proposal has already received unanimous support from the town’s Agricultural Commission.
During the discussion, Conservation Commission members raised questions about how the expansion could affect future farming operations, access routes, and parking availability.
Garden representatives explained that the existing pathway would remain accessible to both gardeners and agricultural users. They also said the proposed expansion would not block an existing water access point that could be used by a future farmer.
The expansion would also involve relocating a portion of the garden’s existing fencing. Several of the wooden fence posts are approximately 10 to 12 years old and already need replacement.
Organizers said the community garden would cover the costs of the expansion, although they hope to receive assistance with labor and equipment.
The commission also discussed maintaining a buffer near the property’s apiary to protect beekeeping activities and provide separation from other agricultural uses.
Agricultural Commission Chair, Mark O’Lalor, was in support of the proposal and highlighted the garden’s role in bringing residents together.
He estimated that more than 250 residents and their families currently participate in the community garden, with additional residents involved in the neighboring apiary and Flowers to Empower program.
O’Lalor said the proposed expansion could bring another 15 to 20 participants to the property.
Commissioners also discussed next steps to determine the acreage available for future agricultural use.
The approved expansion will allow the community garden to serve additional residents while preserving space for beekeeping and potential future agricultural operations on the property.
