Hillsborough County's First Garden Park Cultivates Sustainability

From fresh vegetables and colorful pollinator gardens to renewable energy and environmental education, VISTA Gardens has become a place where Hillsborough County residents can connect with nature while learning how sustainable practices can benefit their communities.

Located in Carrollwood on County-owned property, VISTA Gardens is Hillsborough County's first garden park. Operated by the nonprofit Village Institute for Sustainable Technologies & Agriculture, the 3.31-acre site has transformed what was once an abandoned water treatment facility into a thriving community space dedicated to organic gardening, conservation, education, and volunteering.

Jennifer Grebenschikoff, president of the VISTA Board, said the County was open to the idea of repurposing the land for something to benefit the community.

"We approached the County, and the County said if you think you can improve it, let's arrange for you to go for it," said Grebenschikoff. "We have this agreement with Hillsborough County through the Parks & Recreation department that makes us officially the first community garden park in the County."

Growing a more sustainable community

VISTA Gardens serves as a living classroom where residents can learn about organic gardening, Florida-native plants, composting, pollinator habitats, and sustainability. Members cultivate fruits, vegetables, herbs, and flowers while following environmentally responsible gardening practices. Beyond producing fresh food, the garden demonstrates how sustainable practices can improve soil health, support wildlife, reduce waste, and encourage responsible stewardship of natural resources.

Grebenschikoff says the community garden provides Hillsborough residents a welcoming place to discover practical ways to incorporate sustainability into their own homes.

"Little by little we're trying to help people see that they can create a sustainable, active living environment around their homes that, in the long run, will be healthy for all of us," said Grebenschikoff.

Powered by the sun

The garden operates completely off the electrical grid, relying on solar power to pump water from a deep well into a gravity-fed irrigation system that supplies the entire property. By utilizing renewable energy and well water instead of traditional utilities, VISTA Gardens showcases how sustainable technologies can be incorporated into everyday operations while reducing environmental impacts. Solar power is also integrated into other features throughout the garden, including its freshwater pond filtration system, providing visitors with real-world examples of renewable energy in action.

Built by volunteers

Every flower bed, walking trail, educational program, and community event is supported by garden members and volunteers in the community. The organization has no paid employees, and members commit time each month to maintaining shared spaces, caring for pollinator gardens, leading educational programs, writing grants, coordinating events, and improving the property. Their collective efforts have helped the garden flourish into a destination where residents can garden, volunteer, and learn.

"We have such great members who understand that the community garden can't work without volunteers," said Grebenschikoff. "I am so grateful for the time and energy that our members give to this place."

A place to learn and connect

In addition to providing garden plots for members, VISTA Gardens regularly welcomes schools, Scout troops, universities, civic organizations, and community groups for educational programs and special projects. Topics range from gardening and nutrition to conservation, wildlife, and healthy living. Whether residents are interested in growing their own food, volunteering outdoors, or simply enjoying a peaceful walk through nature, VISTA Gardens offers opportunities to reconnect with nature while learning practices that can make communities healthier and more resilient.

As VISTA Gardens continues to welcome more visitors and volunteers, Grebenschikoff says the organization remains grateful to the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners for its ongoing support of the garden's mission.

"Hillsborough County is constantly making sure we have what we need," said Grebenschikoff. "The entire garden is so grateful for the Parks & Recreation team within the County."

Residents interested in becoming members, volunteering, or visiting can find more information on the VISTA Gardens website. Discover everything Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation has to offer, from award-winning parks and trails to recreation programs, nature experiences, and outdoor adventures for residents of all ages.