Meet Our Founders
Chad + Melissa
About Riviera Farms
Originally established in 1975 by Knute and Gloria Quvale, Riviera Farms has a storied history as a beloved part of the community. After years of neglect, we are proud to breathe new life into this historic 22-acre property.
Our vision blends tradition with renewal as we revitalize Riviera Farms into a thriving sanctuary for fresh eggs, rescued animals, and sustainable farming practices. Together, we’ve embraced the challenge of restoring the land, creating a home for happy, free-ranging hens, and welcoming a growing family of rescued animals.
Riviera Farms is more than a farm—it’s a labor of love. Rooted in its rich history and driven by our passion for preserving its legacy, we’re building a place where community, compassion, and connection thrive. Welcome to Riviera Farms, where every story and every life is cherished.
Chad and Melissa share a passion for adventure, creativity, and community. Their journey began in the action sports industry, where they built dynamic careers at the forefront of action sports, with innovation, marketing, and leadership. While their professional lives thrived in the fast-paced world of executive roles, the allure of a simpler, more fulfilling lifestyle called to them.
Together, they made the bold decision to leave behind the hustle and bustle to settle in the serene and peaceful beauty of Borrego Springs, California. Surrounded by desert landscapes and vibrant local culture, Chad and Melissa have embraced a life centered on sustainability, community, love, trust and respect. We are learning and growing every day, falling down and getting back up, breaking ribs (literally) bleeding, crying, smiling and laughing, but always "keeping our eye's to the sky and never glued to our shoes (-Mac Miller)" Welcome to our little farm and journey!
Whether working on creative ventures or fostering connections within the Borrego Springs community, Chad and Melissa continue to channel their entrepreneurial spirit and shared love for adventure into every aspect of their new chapter.
Riviera Farms: Cultivating Growth with Sustainability
At Riviera Farms, we are committed to creating a sustainable future by reusing resources and revitalizing our land. One of our key initiatives is repurposing downed Tamarisk trees scattered across our property. These invasive trees have become a serious threat to riparian areas across the nation, including Borrego Springs, where thousands of Tamarisk trees have fallen. By transforming them into valuable lumber, we not only address this environmental challenge but also construct new outbuildings and restore growth throughout the farm.
Why Tamarisk Removal Matters
Tamarisk, also known as saltcedar, outcompetes native vegetation and depletes vital water resources. A single large Tamarisk can transpire up to 300 gallons of water daily, posing a significant strain on arid regions like ours. By repurposing downed Tamarisk, we not only prevent this invasive species from returning but also contribute to the ecological balance of our community.
Stop Wasting Resources
Instead of sending Tamarisk wood to landfills, we mill it into lumber, extending its lifecycle and enabling it to continue sequestering carbon for decades. This sustainable approach significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions, preventing methane release—a gas 25 times more potent than carbon dioxide—caused by decomposing wood in landfills.
Teach Sustainable Practices
Education is at the heart of our mission. By showcasing how we repurpose invasive species like Tamarisk, we inspire others to adopt sustainable practices. Urban forestry plays a vital role in resource management, and we aim to empower communities with the knowledge to implement these solutions.
Plan for the Future
At Riviera Farms, we believe in thoughtful planning and innovative solutions to foster long-term growth. By collaborating with local partners, addressing environmental challenges, and focusing on regeneration, we’re building a greener, more sustainable future for Borrego Springs and beyond.
Join us in reducing waste, restoring balance, and creating a thriving future through sustainable practices.
.webp)
