About Us
Gathering Ground blends agriculture and conservation on its 38 acre working and teaching farm. With a vision for thriving communities connected to the environment and their food through work and play, we focus on sustainable farming practices with our diverse fruit and nut orchards and vineyards. We promote biodiversity, offer community composting, and support local farms through our Farmers’ Market. We host educational programs like Ground School and workshops and events for learners of all ages. The Grounds are open for walking tours and picnics. Join us in Planting for the Future!
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Take a virtual trip to our Washington Island farm, and hear more from the founders about what motivates them to learn from its soil.
Watch this video overview of our property, featuring footage from our annual Dinner in the Vineyard fundraiser. Hear from Russell and Alessandra Rolffs about what inspired them to start the foundation, and what they envision for its future.
Video production by Dusan Harminc of Stumptown Media.
News From the Farm
Grape Harvest in Photos
We had a beautiful day in the vineyard this fall, where we harvested 900 lbs of grapes. We will make 400 bottles of wine!
Tales From the Gathering Ground Community Garden
Tales from the Gathering Ground Community Garden by Rachel Schwandt “Be part of a Community Garden,” they said. “It will be fun!,” they said. “You’ll meet lots of people, and learn about gardening and have lots to harvest,” they said. But what they didn’t say was...
Ground School, A Reflection
Please enjoy reading the reflections from our 2023 Ground School Interns who we celebrated this August. Every year, we are blown away by the thoughtful presentations our Ground School students share with our community on the final day of the internship. Claire was no...
They say that the best time to plant a fruit tree is thirty years ago. Well, the second best time is now.

Our Partners & Sponsors
We are so grateful for the support we receive from our partners and sponsors. Do you have a company or organization that’s dedicated to promoting and investing in sustainable agriculture? Contact us for more info.