COVID-19 and keeping our community safe

Updated 7/28/2021 at 8:35 PM

We’ve all been impacted by COVID-19 in some way since the spring of 2020. We know that it’s been a challenging time filled with many unknowns, and we greatly appreciate the collective efforts of health care professionals, businesses, and individuals to keep our communities healthy. Oxbow remains focused on growing safe, healthy food and increasing its availability in the community, and providing safe opportunities to connect with us outdoors on the farm.

We continue to closely monitor and respond to the ever-evolving situation, observing the current COVID-19 guidance for King County here. Below is updated health & safety information to help keep our visitors and staff safe.

Hours & Visiting

Oxbow is currently only open to the public when our Farm Stand is open, or during a specified event. We invite you to pick up some delicious organic veggies and take a short, self-guided walk around our trails. Dogs are not allowed. >> Get directions and visitor info here

Masks and face coverings

Vaccines have slowed the spread of COVID-19 in Washington, but masks are still an important tool in preventing the transmission of the virus.

  • All visitors must wear masks when inside the Farm Stand and restrooms. 
  • Vaccinated Visitors: Masks are optional. You may want to continue wearing a mask if you’re at increased risk for severe infection, have an underlying health condition, or live with someone at increased risk. Parents are encouraged to model good masking behavior for their kids, who may be too young to be eligible for the vaccine and therefore are at risk for infection.
  • Non-Vaccinated Visitors: Masks are strongly encouraged, especially when inside any structure and when within 6 feet of other people.

We are committed to the health and safety of our staff, guests, and program participants, and will provide additional updates as it becomes necessary.


Below are the steps that Oxbow has taken/is currently taking to protect our staff, guests, and program participants, in line with the guidelines established by the CDC and King County Public Health.

  • On-site, we have deployed sanitizing supplies and multiple outdoor handwashing stations in areas frequently used by staff and visitors. 
  • Shared, enclosed indoor spaces are outfitted with air filtration units.
  • All staff have been briefed on the CDC’s recommendations for preventing the spread of illness and have been instructed to stay home if sick, and follow quarantine guidelines in case of suspected illness from or exposure to COVID-19. All staff who can have been instructed to work from home.
  • Educational programming has expanded to meet the varying needs of schools and educators in classrooms, on the farm, and in virtual settings. View our current program offerings here. 
  • Oxbow’s farm staff continues to maintain strict protocol for sanitation and hygiene in an environment where food is handled, as is required for compliance with FSMA (Food Safety Modernization Act) rules. >> Read more about our farming health & safety protocol here.

Oxbow is a special place that provides space for creatures of all kinds—humans included—to find respite in and nourishment from their natural world. Show your support by becoming an Oxbow Member – benefits include discounts at our Farm Stand and on programs, all in support of Oxbow’s work and mission.

Be well,

Team Oxbow