EDGEMONT SOLAR GARDEN
WHERE WEST DAYTON GROWS TOGETHER
The Edgemont Solar Garden is more than just farmland, it’s the heart of a movement. For over 40 years, neighbors have gathered here to grow food, share knowledge, and build community. Today, the Solar Garden continues that legacy, offering fresh produce, farmers markets, and hands-on learning for everyone who wants to be part of Dayton’s food future.
At the Solar Garden, you can:
🌽 Shop local at our weekly farmers markets and bring home fresh, affordable produce
🌱 Learn to grow your own food with workshops and classes led by experienced growers
💪 Volunteer your time and make a direct impact on food access in West Dayton
🎉 Join community events that celebrate food, culture, and neighborhood pride
🤝 Support local growers through our grower support groups and training programs
Whether you’re a first-time gardener, a seasoned farmer, or a neighbor who just loves fresh food and fellowship, the Solar Garden has a place for you. Together, we’re revitalizing a historic community landmark and creating a healthier, more connected Dayton.
👉 Come grow with us. Visit the Solar Garden, volunteer, or sign up for a class today!
SOLAR GARDEN PHOTO GALLERY
EDGEMONT SOLAR GARDEN
Edgemont Solar Garden was founded in 1978 through a partnership with City Commissioner Dean Lovelace, Brother Ed Zamierowski from the University of Dayton, and Mattie Davis, an Edgemont resident leader. Their combined efforts transformed a razed factory site on Miami Chapel Road into a neighborhood garden and community center.
Over the past forty years, the Solar Garden and center provided valuable programs within the neighborhood, especially for area youth. Unfortunately, the community center suffered fire damage after being struck by lightning in June 2016. The center has been boarded since, and repair of the structure is uncertain.
In recent years, the Edgemont Solar Garden partnered with Ohio State Extension and Homefull to renovate the greenhouse on the property. The renovation was funded by a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG). Repairs to the hoop house, construction of raised beds, and an update to the electric system was also completed with CDBG funds.
A Dayton Mini-Grant was awarded to the solar garden to upgrade the water line in 2018. Partnerships with Central State Dayton and Extension, Ohio Ecological Food & Farm Association (OEFFA), West Dayton Food Access Collective, Mt. Olive Baptist Church, Dunbar High School, and the University of Dayton Fitz Center Civic Scholars are underway.