RA Addressing Garden Plot Security

(Posted May 10, 2021) Reston Association is working with Fairfax County Police to reduce thefts at the association’s five community garden plots. The latest incident occurred in the early morning hours of May 7 at Hunters Woods Park, where various plants, garden statues and tools were stolen. RA installed a 10-foot chain-link fence and motion detector lights to improve security after garden items were taken from the site last year, but the measures did not prevent the latest theft.

“We know how much the Reston’s garden plots mean to our community members,” said RA CEO, Hank Lynch. “Gardeners give their time and energy to help us manage these facilities and they get immense personal satisfaction out of growing their own plants and vegetables. We want residents of all ages to feel they can pursue this wonderful hobby in a safe and secure manner.”

The association will explore further steps to prevent more thefts and work with the Design Review Board to upgrade lighting and potentially install a trail camera to help identify anyone coming or going from the garden plots.

Meanwhile, RA’s Central Services Facility team will meet with gardeners to ensure gates are always locked and that the combination to the plots is not shared with anyone. The combination is provided to those members who rent space at the RA garden plots. Fees are determined by plot size. Historically, Reston’s garden plots have been one of RA’s most sought-after amenities, often operating at capacity.

Police are encouraging residents to contact the Reston District Police Station 703 478 0904 to report any suspicious activities. Anyone caught trespassing or stealing plants or other items from any of RA’s garden plots can face a variety of criminal charges.