Visiting the Island School

Washington Island, WI – Gathering Ground is excited to announce that we have been awarded a generous grant of $66,000 from the Destination Door County Community Investment Fund. This funding will support the construction of a new pavilion at our Lake View Farm, a wash/pack station for Aznoe’s Market Garden, and the development of trails and signage at both of our farms.

At Gathering Ground, we bring people together through farming and food. We believe that connecting to the land and understanding where food comes from can change lives and inspire action. This grant represents a significant opportunity to expand our mission of building on Door County’s farming heritage while building a vibrant local food system.

Key Project Highlights

Pavilion at Lake View: A new gathering space for community events, workshops, and educational programs focused on sustainable agriculture and healthy living. At our Lake View farm we have a community garden, orchard, chestnut research nursery and orchard as well as our organically-managed vineyard. A pavilion will enhance what we are able to offer in this outdoor classroom.
Wash/Pack Station for Aznoe’s Market Garden: This will enhance our food production processes, allowing us to provide fresh, locally-grown produce to our community while maintaining high standards of quality and safety. Food grown here will be available to the community through the local farmers market, grocery store, and through a partnership with the Door County Food Pantry Coalition.
Trails and Signage: Improved pathways and informative signage will enhance the visitor experience, making it easier to explore and learn about our farms. We are looking for ways to include child-engaging activities like scavenger hunts.

In 2025, Gathering Ground acquired the second farm on Aznoe Road and launched the $1.1 million Planting for the Future campaign. This grant is aimed at embracing new possibilities on our two farms, totaling 74 acres. This campaign will allow us to:

Expand our practice and promotion of sustainable farming.
Enhance our educational programs, including internship Ground School.
Grow more healthy food and make it accessible to more people.
Increase outreach through more workshops and classes.

About Gathering Ground:

Gathering Ground is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to cultivating a thriving, equitable community through sustainable agriculture. We believe in the power of farming to connect people to the land, each other and healthy food. For more information about our projects and how to get involved, please visit gatheringgroundwi.org.