Our Mission
We are an organic garden devoted to growing healthy food, creating fellowship between neighbors and the San Diego State University community, teaching and research on the principles of sustainable urban agriculture, and educating and producing food for our garden members and participants from the general community.
Core Values
Organic Growing
We believe organic methods are better for our bodies and the environment around us, so we strictly avoid the use of toxic pesticides and other harmful practices.
Education
We host educational programs and events all year long. Our classes and workshops are designed to promote all aspects of connecting with nature—from learning about vermiculture composting to practicing yoga in our communal space.
Community
Our garden brings together a community of nearly 60 gardeners, countless volunteers, SDSU students and faculty, and local organizations. We are passionate about growing and donating food to help feed the community around us.
Sustainability
Outfitted with solar panels, a rain-catchment cistern, and a 3-bin compost system, we are passionate about increasing the ways we can decrease our environmental impact.
Our Story
The College Area Community Garden (CACG) is a volunteer-run, non-profit community garden and urban farm. Our garden features a network of almost 100 raised bed garden plots, an orchard, grape vines, and so much more. The CACG is located on almost an acre of leased land directly next door to San Diego State University (SDSU).
The garden began operations in early 2013 in partnership with the Associated Students of SDSU. We are dedicated in large part to fostering a greater sense of community between local residents and university students, faculty, administration, and affiliates.
We welcome gardeners of all skill levels, from beginner to expert. Come join us so you too can experience the pleasures of growing and harvesting your own healthy food.
Remembering Ben Bertram, Our Inspiration
Henry Bertram founded the College Area Community Garden in 2013, but the inspiration for it came long before—through the teachings of his father, Ben Bertram (1906 –1999). An early follower of natural food proponent Adelle Davis, Ben began practicing organic gardening in Los Angeles in 1923. His passion for organic gardening had a lasting impact on Henry.
My father, Ben Bertram, instilled healthy eating and work habits in his five kids, which became a foundation for success. Thanks in large part to the wisdom and knowledge he shared with all of us, I founded and was CEO of a construction company in San Diego which helped clients for over 30 years. In 2011, my neighbors in the College View residential area expressed interest in creating a neighborhood veggie garden.
Transitioning into retirement, this endeavor was a natural fit for me given my skills and abilities. Furthermore, it echoed my father’s advocacy for healthy foods and belief in eating as naturally as possible.
With the help of SDSU students, faculty, staff, and administrators as well as many College Area residents, the College Area Community Garden has grown tremendously since organizing in 2012. It’s a thriving place with a highly social, positive, and educationally-rich environment that promotes sustainability, community, and healthy lifestyles.
Ben Bertram, c. 1995. Photo courtesy of Henry Bertram.