CERTIFIED ORGANIC·BORREGO SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA
Regenerating
the Desert.
A REAL WORKING FARM IN THE CALIFORNIA DESERT
EST. 1975 · REIMAGINED WITH CARE
A historic 22-acre organic farm raising happy animals, growing honest food,
and building a more resilient Borrego Springs.
REGENERATING THE DESERT, ONE SEASON AT A TIME
Leave the land
better than we
found it.
In the desert, every drop, root, pollinator, and handful of soil matters.
We build soil through composting, work to conserve water with targeted irrigation, plant pollinator-friendly crops, integrate animals into the farm system, and repurpose downed Tamarisk as lumber for future farm projects.
A working farm,
full of life.
Riviera Farms is where desert grit meets daily care—from sunrise feedings and just-laid eggs to organic herbs, vegetables, rescued animals, and dusty boots.
Originally established by Knute and Gloria Qvale, the farm is being restored one season at a time through regenerative agriculture, conservation, composting, and a deep commitment to feeding the community we call home.
NOT POLISHED. NOT PRECIOUS.
Regenerating the Desert, One Season at a Time
At Riviera Farms, we believe agriculture can do more than produce food—it can restore landscapes, rebuild soil, and create healthier ecosystems for future generations. As a certified organic farm in Borrego Springs, our work is guided by the principles of regenerative agriculture: improving soil health, increasing biodiversity, conserving precious water resources, and working in harmony with the desert environment.
Every decision we make is rooted in stewardship. From composting organic materials and integrating livestock into our farming systems to planting pollinator-friendly crops and minimizing waste, we are committed to leaving the land better than we found it. Regenerative farming is not simply about what we grow—it is about how we grow it, creating resilient systems that support healthy soil, healthy food, and a thriving local community.
The desert presents unique challenges, but it also offers remarkable opportunities. By focusing on soil biology, water retention, and ecological balance, we are helping transform arid land into productive, vibrant habitat while preserving the natural character of Borrego Springs.
The Tamarisk Story
One of our ongoing restoration efforts involves the removal and repurposing of Tamarisk, also known as saltcedar. This invasive tree has spread throughout the Southwest, displacing native vegetation and placing significant demands on limited water resources. Across Borrego Springs, thousands of Tamarisk trees have fallen or been removed as part of broader restoration efforts.
Rather than sending this material to a landfill, we give it a second life. Downed Tamarisk trees from our property are milled into lumber and used for farm infrastructure, fencing, and future building projects. By repurposing the wood, we reduce waste, keep valuable materials in use, and honor the principle that every resource has value.
For us, the Tamarisk represents more than an invasive species—it is an opportunity to restore balance. Through thoughtful land management and regenerative practices, we are working to replace what does not belong with what does, creating a healthier, more resilient desert landscape for generations to come.
