Goshen Farm Use Policy

Goshen Farm is owned by Anne Arundel County Public Schools and managed by the Goshen Farm Preservation Society, Inc. (GFPS). The following policies ensure the safe, respectful, and lawful use of this historic site and surrounding 22 acres. By visiting Goshen Farm, members and guests agree to abide by these rules and the Terms and Conditions of Membership.

General Access

  • Who Can Visit: Access to Goshen Farm is limited to active GFPS members, guests attending GFPS-sponsored or board-approved public events, or those with prior board-approved permission.
  • Hours: Goshen Farm is not open to the general public outside of events.

Member Use

  • Personal Use: Members may bring up to 10 non-member guests per visit. Groups larger than 10 require prior approval via the Event Use Application and Agreement.
  • Event Requests: Events involving more than 10 non-member guests or any formal gathering must be submitted for board review at least 30 days in advance. A $10 fee per 10 additional guests may apply.
  • Restricted Areas: Entry into the Farm House, Sharing Garden, Apiary, Hoop House, Henson-Hall Slave Garden, or Pollinator Garden & Monarch Waystation is not permitted unless as part of a scheduled tour or special event.

Farm-Wide Policies

  • Carry-In/Carry-Out: Members and event hosts are responsible for their own trash and cleanup. A $150 cleanup fee may be assessed for non-compliance.
  • Pets: Dogs must be leashed at all times. Pets are not permitted inside the Sharing Garden.
  • Children: Must be supervised at all times.
  • Smoking, Drugs, Alcohol, Fires, and Fireworks: All are prohibited unless pre-approved and permitted per the Food and Alcohol Addendum (see below).
  • Motorized Vehicles: Only vehicles licensed by the Maryland MVA may use entrance roads and designated parking during approved events. No motorized vehicles are allowed on fields, trails, or wooded areas at any time.

Risk and Liability

  • Use of the property is at the sole risk of members, guests, and event hosts.
  • GFPS is not liable for injury, theft, or property damage.
  • GFPS General Liability Insurance does not cover prohibited activities. Violators accept full responsibility.

Historic Structures

  • The Farm House and other historic buildings are closed to the public unless accompanied by a board member or during official tours.

Facility Use and Resources

  • Electricity: Limited. Requests for electricity must be submitted with the event application. Fees may apply.
  • Water and Restrooms: No running water. One portable toilet is available. Large events may require additional rental facilities at the event host’s expense.
  • Parking: Limited paved parking is available. Additional field parking depends on weather conditions and is determined by GFPS.

Event Use Application and Agreement

An application is required for:

  • Events involving more than 10 non-member guests
  • Any commercial or business use
  • Activities requiring electricity
  • Any outside organization wishing to use the Farm

Commercial and Non-Member Use

  • Commercial Use: Prohibited unless explicitly approved. Businesses must apply via the Event Use Application. Fees are negotiated on a case-by-case basis.
  • Non-Members: May not access Goshen Farm unless attending an official GFPS event or as a guest of a member (10-person maximum).
  • Outside Vendors and Exhibitors: Must submit an Exhibitor or Vendor Participation Agreement with proof of liability insurance. Fees may apply.

Alcohol and Food (Addendum Summary)

Events involving alcohol must:

  • Be adult-centered and not designed for underage participants.
  • Obtain proper licensing and permits.
  • Provide proof of liability insurance covering liquor liability.
  • Notify GFPS and AACPS of event details in advance.
  • Follow all state, county, and AACPS regulations.
  • Comply with all health and safety requirements.

For full guidelines, see the Food and Alcohol Addendum [insert downloadable link or file if applicable].

Use by Educational Groups

  • AACPS and AACC: Permitted at no charge, coordinated through the GFPS Educational Outreach Chair.
  • Private Schools, Homeschoolers, and Pre-K/Daycare Providers: Welcomed with prior approval and, when required, submission of an event application and proof of insurance.

Enforcement

  • GFPS’s Security Chair and Board enforce all rules and monitor property via cameras.
  • Violation of policies may result in revocation of member privileges and/or liability for damages.

For more details or to apply for event use, please visit our [Event Use Application page] or email [info@goshenfarm.org].