Projects 2011

Daisy Sonju Community Garden

Opened in the spring of 2011, Des Moines’ first ever community garden is a combination pea patch and community food source.  We envision residents of all ages and cultures improving their health by reconnecting to their environment through:
• Building Community.
• Participating in Community Education
• Eating Delicious & Nutritious Foods

The 9-acre park was donated to the City of Des Moines in 1996 by Daisy Sonju and her family, and has forest, two creeks, and an orchard that is being reclaimed from the underbrush.  All the produce from the community part of the garden and from the orchard is being donated to the Des Moines Area Food Bank and other local food coalition partners.

Development of Sonju Park is a partnership between community members, Des Moines Legacy Foundation, the City of Des Moines and Parks, Recreation and Senior Services, Des Moines Area Food Bank, and Des Moines Rotary Club. 

To donate, volunteer or get more information, contact Parks, Recreation and Senior Services at (206) 870-6527 or friendsofsonjupark@hotmail.com.