Alpine Acres Sanctuary Farm™ (formerly known as San Diego Animal Sanctuary & Farm and Children’s Nature Retreat), a 20-acre animal sanctuary in Alpine with nearly 200 rescued animals, boasts a bountiful fall harvest from their new regenerative farm. The farm’s Pumpkin Patch is also now open!
The Farm’s three-acre biological gardens have edible pumpkins of all shapes, sizes, and species, from Cinderella, Musquee de Provence, Galeux d’Esynes, Long Island Cheese, Red Kuri, Jarrahdale, Gusto de Horno, to name a few. In addition to pumpkins, the Farm has also produced a variety of vegetables, including egg plants, bell peppers, sweet peppers, hot peppers, corn, Swiss chard, beets, cucumbers, Delicata squash, Honey nut, Northern Georgia Candy Roaster, leeks, collard greens, broccolini, tomatoes, dandelions, and zucchini – and herbs such as parsley, basil, rosemary and cilantro – and soon, the famous lettuce bulbs and lettuce mix will be back. The farm grows different fruits and vegetables year-round.
The fresh produce can be purchased at their on-site Farm Stand, and the Farm will also be present at the La Jolla Open Aire Market (Sundays from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.), Ocean Beach Farmer’s Market (Wednesdays from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m.), and soon, the Rancho Santa Fe Farmer’s Market (Sundays from 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.), as well as delivery to the Santee area on Wednesdays. The sale of all fruits and vegetables help to support the nearly 200 rescued animals, while some of the vegetables also feed the tortoises. The farm does not use any chemicals or pesticides to grow their fruits and vegetables and can be considered organic.
“We hope San Diegans will support the Farm through its Pumpkin Patch and vegetable stands – the vegetables are so deliciously fresh,” said Agnes Barrelet, executive director. “Every purchase – as well as visits to see our animals – help support the Sanctuary & Farm.”
Additionally, the Farm’s Pumpkin Patch is open, and guests are welcome to take family photos. And kids in costume the week leading up to Halloween, Oct. 27-31, can partake in trick-or-treating.
The Sanctuary also just launched a new online store with t-shirts; additional items will be added soon. All proceeds from the store also support the Farm and all its animals.
“We’re excited about our new online store,” said Barrelet. “It’s another way people can support the farm, even if they can’t get to Alpine.”
Alpine Acres Sanctuary Farm is home to nearly 200 domesticated livestock and exotic animals, from bison to camels and zebras to a mélange of farm animals. Most of the animals were pets who lost their homes due to their previous owners’ illness, death, or financial difficulties. Daily visits, support of the Farm’s vegetable stands and donations help pay for the animals’ needs, both food and medical care.
Located at 5178 Japatul Spur, Alpine Acres Sanctuary Farm is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., seven days a week. Those interested in visiting the animals can become a “Member for a Day,” and purchase single day admission tickets or upgrade to a yearly pass. Tickets are $40 for adults and $25 for kids (children under 2-years are free); seniors (65+) are $36. Parking is complimentary. To buy tickets or for more information, visit www.AlpineAcresSanctuaryFarm.org.
Recent Comments