The Benefits of Bringing Farming Into Communities Like Rancho Mission Viejo

Lara Hermanson

In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, the need to reconnect with nature has never been more important. At Rancho Mission Viejo (RMV), Farmscape is leading the way in turning this idea into reality by integrating farming directly into the heart of communities. Through programs like RMV Farms, residents are experiencing the many benefits of community farming—both for their health and for the environment. Let’s take a closer look at the advantages of bringing farming into communities like RMV.

At RMV, the Farmscape-managed farms serve as more than just agricultural spaces—they’re community hubs. With over 100 families participating in the resident farmer program, the farms offer an opportunity for neighbors to come together and grow food alongside each other. RMV Farms also provides  shared activities for all residents in the community through farmstands,  farm-to-table dinners, wine pairings and workshops, giving community members a place to connect over a shared love of the land. As Josh Marr, lead farmer at Esencia Farm, explains, these spaces provide an escape from daily stresses and offer residents a way to connect with their community in a meaningful, hands-on way.

Farming offers countless mental and physical health benefits. Getting outdoors, working in the soil and harvesting fresh produce all contribute to a more active, healthier lifestyle. As Megan, a resident farmer at RMV, shares, her family’s involvement in the farm has not only created lasting memories but has also improved her child’s connection to the food they eat. The simple act of working in the soil provides stress relief, improves mental clarity and encourages physical activity. Whether it’s growing vegetables or learning the cycles of nature, being a part of a community farm benefits the entire family.

Farming within a community environment fosters an understanding of sustainable practices. Farmscape helps RMV residents learn about organic farming,water management and how to grow their own produce in an eco-friendly way. By encouraging practices like composting, organic pest control and drip irrigation, the program helps cultivate a deeper appreciation for the environment. Long-time participant Candace Scott highlights how much she’s learned over her 10 years of farming with RMV Farms, including which crops grow best and how to nurture plants over time.

One of the most tangible benefits of having a farm in the community is the access to fresh, organic produce. Farmscape’s resident farmer program allows participants to enjoy a variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables that are grown right in their own backyard. From colorful carrots to herbs and heirloom tomatoes, the produce is distributed to families through U-pick events, farm bag purchases and local markets. Candace points out how much better she eats now, as everything is organic and fresh from the farm.

The farm not only offers a space to grow food but also enriches the overall quality of life for RMV residents. The program caters to a wide range of individuals, from families with young children to retirees looking for a fulfilling, therapeutic activity. As Sarah Rosenberger, Farmscape’s program manager, explains, people from all walks of life are drawn to the farm for different reasons, whether to create roots, enjoy outdoor activities or simply experience the therapeutic benefits of farming. This diverse participation adds depth to the community experience and makes the farm an inclusive, welcoming space.

By integrating farming into a residential development, RMV is setting an example for future communities. The farm program is just one part of RMV’s broader ecological vision, which includes open spaces, trails and nature reserves. The community’s commitment to preserving and enhancing the natural environment speaks to the legacy of caring for the land—a mission that Farmscape helps bring to life through its hands-on management and educational programming.

The farming program at Rancho Mission Viejo, powered by Farmscape, is a perfect example of how integrating agriculture into communities can enhance quality of life, foster sustainability and build stronger connections among neighbors. The benefits go far beyond simply growing food—it’s about creating an immersive, educational, and therapeutic experience that nourishes both the people and the land. As more communities look for ways to embrace sustainability and improve residents’ well-being, the model created by RMV shows how farming can be at the heart of that transformation.

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