From the Ground Up: Cleaning the Future Home of Area 2 Farms in Fairfax

The first step toward our new farm! Huge thanks to our amazing volunteers for helping clear the lot and bring this space back to life.

Over the weekend, we rolled up our sleeves and got to work cleaning up the site of our new farm in Fairfax. The lot — tucked between a gas station and a McDonald’s — has sat vacant for nearly two decades, collecting overgrowth, litter, and the kind of wild tangle that nature creates when left to its own devices.

But underneath the weeds and debris, we saw what we always see: potential. This space will soon transform from an unused corner of the city into a thriving farm that grows fresh, organic produce for our neighbors right here in Fairfax.

View from the back of the new farm site.

Aerial view of the new farm site.

Teamwork in Action

With the help of volunteers from the community, we began clearing debris from the lot. Volunteers donated not just their time, but tools like pruning shears, rakes, and shovels. This time around, we focused on clearing kudzu and ivy from the perimeter of the lot. While working, farmers and neighbors chatted about the city, the farming history of the area, and their favorite places to eat in town.

By the end of the day, the transformation was already visible — tangled vines gave way to open space, and the once-hidden outline of the lot began to take shape. Together, we cleared eight full trash bags of overgrowth and debris, a tangible sign of the progress we made. The teamwork and energy on-site made it clear that this farm will be built not just by Area 2 Farms, but by everyone who believes in growing food close to home.

Farmers Katie and Drew dig up weeds.

Farmer Jackie and Volunteer Riley clear vines.

Eric Duer, a teacher in Fairfax, uses a pickaxe to clear stubborn brush.

Rooted in Community

We’re so grateful to everyone who showed up to help us take this first step toward building our newest farm. Projects like this remind us that farming doesn’t just start in the soil — it starts with people. Each cleanup, each conversation, and each shared effort brings new life to a space that’s been dormant for years.

And this is only the beginning. In the coming months, we’ll continue preparing the site, hosting more volunteer days, and getting ready to grow food year-round for our community.

Grow with Us

Want to be part of the next cleanup? Join our volunteer list and follow along on social media to see the farm take shape!