We are grateful to the Sonoma City Council for unanimously approving our Sonoma Garden Park Master Plan Update at its Dec. 2 meeting, capping a long process in updating the blueprint to this beloved park’s future. Thank you also to the Sonoma Planning Commission, city planners, and most especially to our many supporters.

Although the process is not 100 percent completed, last week’s vote was a major milestone. Our planned improvements include a new restroom, new children’s play areas, more parking and better gathering spaces. (For an executive summary of the Master Plan Update, click here. For a full copy as submitted to the city, click here and go to calendar item 4.6.)

That’s not the only good news. Thanks to an anonymous angel investor, our plan to build a new chicken coop now has wings! With the necessary funding in hand, we’re now able to replace the current coop, located in the northeast corner of the park, with something stronger and safer for the chickens. Many thanks to you, generous neighbor. The chickens thank you too.

Meanwhile, our everyday work at the Garden Park continues. With winter upon us, we’re now in pruning mode, and seeking experienced pruners who are able to come help us keep the orchard trees healthy and strong. Anyone interested is encouraged to email us at volunteer@sonomaecologycenter.org. (Volunteering is one way to help, donating is another – and we should alert those able to help financially that Patagonia is currently making dollar-for-dollar matching donations to Sonoma Ecology Center by clicking here!)