Three Springs is a twenty-five-year-old intentional community near the geographic center of California. It holds about 160 acres of land in common “to promote and demonstrate ecologically sustainable living and agricultural practices” and “to protect the unique flora and fauna of the Sierra Nevada foothills.” Members grow flowers and native plants to sell at farmers markets and to local restaurants; host numerous community events, including seasonal celebrations and fundraisers for local organizations; and maintain an extensive trail system through meadows, woods, creeks, and riparian areas, which is open to the public.
The community welcomes WWOOF visitors (Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms or Willing Workers on Organic Farms) as part of an international effort “to build a global community conscious of ecological farming practices.” Visitors to the community work in the garden and on other projects in exchange for room and board, experiencing communal living and learning organic gardening techniques.
Three Springs has received two loans: in 2010, to perform needed repairs to their communal houses; in 2016, to upgrade their water infrastructure; and in 2023, to install a solar array that provides all of their electricity.