Arc of Ventura - Ojai

ARC Site Description

The ARC-Ojai Enrichment Center is an adult day care program that serves developmentally challenged clients. The Master Gardener public outreach efforts at this site include a lecture series covering topics such as orchard pruning, building raised beds, insect control, tomato propagation, and winter gardening. The lecture series offers presentations by guest speakers as well. As an example, in May 2016, the Master Gardeners partnered with Casitas Water District to address the drought and the orchard management problems caused by drought. In the future, Master Gardeners will plan, with the City of Ojai, inclusion in Ojai’s annual Garden Tours.

The Master Gardener program at the ARC began in the early 1990s. Then, the only garden that existed at the site was the orchard. With Charles Duncan spearheading the effort, the orchard has been revitalized. Weeding, mulching, pruning, and other work on the trees have transformed the unkempt grove into a thriving, productive orchard. Even today, the ARC orchard is currently treated with a horticulture vinegar solution, as a science-based method to control weeds.

Pat Neff is an ARC staff member who worked with Charles. She marvels at how their orchard has improved with the assistance of the Master Gardeners program. She feels the program has enhanced the appearance of the center.

The Master Gardeners working at this center are recognized by local citizens as a dynamic part of the community. Native plant landscaping, developed by Master Gardeners in partnership with the Fish and Game, graces the front entrance of the center. At various locations within, the center hosts the edible garden, garden art, and a greenhouse. The Master gardeners have built raised beds with irrigation which provides ARC clients an opportunity to grow their own fruits and vegetables.

Volunteer Work Hours:

Tuesdays, 9-11 am

Map to Arc Ojai