About Us
Founded in 1976, New Paltz Gardens for Nutrition, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is said to be one of the oldest continuous community gardens in New York. It is adjacent to the Wallkill River off Huguenot Street in New Paltz and occupies five acres of a fertile flood plain located within a Village of New Paltz park. Over 150 individual plots are filled with organically grown vegetables, flowers, herbs and small fruit during the growing season, although the actual number of plots varies each year with plots being split or merged.
The gardens have running water for irrigation and an electric deer fence installed around the entire grid. Gardening tools, wheelbarrows, and lawnmowers are provided and are maintained or replaced as needed.
New Paltz Gardens for Nutrition is a volunteer-run organization that requires everyone's cooperation to function well. Members are expected to help maintain the common areas, tools, and the deer fence, as well as clear vacant plots when necessary. With the work of our members, New Paltz Gardens for Nutrition not only survives, but thrives.
As a 501(c)(3), New Paltz Gardens for Nutrition accepts donations in support of our commitment to sustainable and environmentally responsible stewardship of the land. Your tax deductible donation may be sent to: New Paltz Gardens for Nutrition, PO Box 835, New Paltz, NY 12561. Please make the check out to New Paltz Gardens for Nutrition. Click the DONATE button below to make a donation using Paypal, Venmo, or a credit card.
2026 Board of Directors
Ayla Daley, President
Phil Bishop, Plot Coordinator
Gail Herman, Treasurer
NPGFN member since 2023
When I joined the Gardens for Nutrition in 2023, it felt like a coming home. I love having my bare feet on the earth, my hands in the soil, and to watch the daily miracles as things grow. I'm so grateful to have the opportunity to do that within a community of like-minded souls. I am looking forward to growing some baby watermelons this year.
Gail Herman, Treasurer
Phil Bishop, Plot Coordinator
Gail Herman, Treasurer
NPGFN member since 2007
I have always loved being outdoors walking in the woods, being in nature. I have enjoyed the challenge of tending both indoor plants and outdoor planting my whole life. Our community garden was my first garden experience where there was a community to inspire and the land to experiment with so many different vegetables, herbs and flowers. My favorite vegetable/fruit is the tomatillo.
Phil Bishop, Plot Coordinator
Phil Bishop, Plot Coordinator
Rachel Matza, Recording Secretary
NPGFN member since 2023
The garden for me is a sanctuary and a place to refresh and reconnect with the natural world. It is a welcoming community of not just fellow gardeners, but the soil, the birds, the bees and the plants. It is a place I love to be. My favorite things to grow are green beans and tomatoes.
Rachel Matza, Recording Secretary
Rachel Matza, Recording Secretary
Rachel Matza, Recording Secretary
NPGFN member since 2024
I love the community garden as a place where people share knowledge, creativity and care. I'm especially drawn to the resilience of plants and how much they can teach us about patience and adaptation. My favorite thing to grow is dahlias.
Brian Olmstead
Rachel Matza, Recording Secretary
Brian Olmstead
NPGFN member since 2025
2025 was my first year at the garden. It has been one of my best experiences in a long time! I have enjoyed meeting other gardeners, getting advice, and helping others when needed. The peace that comes with planning, planting and harvesting is beyond belief. I’m looking forward to seeing my fellow gardeners and getting our plots ready for the 2026 season. Looking forward to a successful hot pepper season!