County selects nonprofit to take over Tijuana River Valley Community Garden

by Walker Armstrong

The County of San Diego has selected Olivewood Gardens and Learning Center as the new operator of the Tijuana River Valley Community Garden, ensuring continuity for hundreds of plot owners at the region’s largest community garden.

Olivewood Gardens, a nonprofit founded in National City, will serve as interim operator for up to one year following the Resource Conservation District of Greater San Diego County’s decision to terminate its lease in September due to health and safety concerns related to the Tijuana River sewage crisis.

“Their strong commitment to environmental education and community health aligns perfectly with our shared vision for the Tijuana River Valley,” county Supervisor Paloma Aguirre said of Olivewood Gardens. “No one in our community should have to choose between their health and their green spaces.”

Bill, left, and Debi Ridge clean leaves from their 30-foot-by-30-foot plot at the Tijuana River Valley Community Garden. (Ana Ramirez / The San Diego Union-Tribune)

The garden, located within the Tijuana River Valley Regional Park, spans more than 200 plots, including 10 quarter-acre farms leased for $324 to $1,600 per year. It was previously jointly managed by the RCD and the county.

The county is negotiating a license agreement with Olivewood Gardens to complete the operator transition by Nov. 30.