Meet Our Founders
About Riviera Farms
Originally established in 1975 by Knute and Gloria Quvale, Riviera Farms has long been a cherished piece of Borrego Springs history. After years of neglect, I’m proud to be breathing new life into this historic 22-acre property—restoring it with heart, grit, and a whole lot of elbow grease.
What began as a shared dream between Chad and me has now become a one-woman mission. While Chad has since stepped away from the farm, his early efforts and support helped lay the foundation. Today, I carry on the vision we once imagined together—reimagining Riviera Farms as a sanctuary for fresh eggs, rescued animals, and regenerative, sustainable agriculture.
This is more than a farm—it’s a labor of love and resilience. From rebuilding the land and raising free-ranging hens to nursing rescue animals back to health, every moment is fueled by determination and deep-rooted care for community and connection.
My journey to Borrego Springs started with a leap of faith—a decision to trade a fast-paced career in the action sports industry for a life of intention and purpose. The desert’s quiet strength, its beauty, and its community have become my guiding force. Every day is filled with learning, laughter, setbacks, and sunrises. Yes, there are broken ribs, dirty boots, and long hours, but there’s also magic in the mess.
Riviera Farms is a place where stories are shared, lives are cherished, and hope is planted alongside every seed. Thank you for being part of this journey. Welcome to my little farm.
Keep your eyes to the sky and never glued to your shoes. —Mac Miller
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.
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