Located adjacent to San Diego State University (SDSU), the College Area Community Garden (CACG) stands as a showcase of what can be accomplished when a community unites.
Formed by the collaborative efforts of SDSU Associated Students and local College Area residents over a decade ago, CACG has evolved into a dynamic hub for urban agriculture, education, and active community engagement.
A dedicated nine-member volunteer board steers CACG, with the executive leadership consisting of President Deanna Chandra, Vice-President Charlotte Roberts, and Treasurer Carol Buehler. Together, they are guiding the garden towards a future focused on zero-waste practices while addressing pressing issues like food insecurity in the community.
CACG boasts 100 raised beds, an orchard with over 50 trees, and an assortment of specialty gardens.
A significant collaboration with local organizations such as Wild Ones-San Diego and San Diego Master Gardeners has initiated the creation of a 10,000 square feet Native Plant Pollinator Garden. This garden is set to enhance local biodiversity and serve as an invaluable educational resource.
In partnership with the University of California Master Gardener Program, Master Food Preserver Program and the Peninsula Community Garden Association (PCGA), the CACG provides an extensive selection of workshops and classes. These educational opportunities cover a broad spectrum of topics, from organic gardening and water-smart irrigation, to seed saving and preserving the harvest.
As we commence 2024, CACG proudly presents the first class in our food preservation education series, “Modern Food Preservation: Methods and Techniques.” This class will be held on Jan. 13 from 9-11 a.m. at the CACG, located on Zura Way off Montezuma Road.
Following this, we eagerly anticipate “Backyard Orchard Basics,” a workshop led by CACG Orchard Manager Robert Lawson, on Feb. 10 in the garden from 9-11 a.m. In this workshop, Robert will impart his vast knowledge about fruit tree care and maintenance, offering participants insight into choosing appropriate trees for their specific environments while considering climate, soil type and space constraints.
CACG is also home to the Cooperative Growing Program, where members and volunteers work together to cultivate crops, exchange knowledge, and enhance harvest yields. A portion of the produce harvested is donated to food banks and individuals struggling with food insecurity.
To foster hands-on learning, CACG organizes volunteer days every Tuesday and on the fourth Saturday of each month. These sessions offer a chance for individuals to aid in the development of the garden while learning sustainable gardening techniques.
For more information about the College Area Community Garden, visit collegeareagarden.org.
If you’re interested in exploring urban agriculture through classes or wish to participate in volunteer events, registration is straightforward at peninsulagarden.org.
These platforms serve as gateways to join a community deeply committed to sustainability, education, and collective endeavor.
Editor’s note: Deanna Chandra is UCCE Master Gardener, Master Food Preserver. (Courtesy photo)
