WELCOME TO THE FARM!

Cottonwood is a little oasis of green right here in the city! Our farm is a vibrant, welcoming space where plants, people, and ideas come together to thrive. Nestled in the heart of Panorama City, Cottonwood Urban Farm was created with one goal in mind: to cultivate the connections between food, community and education.

Visit the Farm

Growing In Action!

CUF has been cultivating the soil for over a decade, and in that time has created a robust ecology of perennials, herbs, and fruit trees. The diverse orchard celebrates the amazing climate of Southern California. From Stone Fruit to Bananas, CUF has planted an orchard that produces fruit almost all year long and builds off the interconnected ecology of all organisms on the grounds.

Benefits of Local Produce

Freshness & Flavor

Locally grown produce reaches the community faster, ensuring fruits and vegetables are at peak freshness. This means better flavor, higher nutrient content, and a more enjoyable eating experience.

Reduced Environmental Impact

Super local produce travels shorter distances, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions from transportation. This lowers the carbon footprint and supports a more sustainable food system.

Supports Local Economy

Buying and growing locally keeps funds within the community, supporting farmers and small businesses. It creates jobs and fosters economic resilience right where people live.

Increased Food Security

Having access to a nearby source of fresh produce enhances community food security, especially during times of supply chain disruptions. It offers a dependable food source that’s close to home.

Encourages Community Connections

Local farms and gardens bring people together, whether through farmers' markets, educational events, or volunteer opportunities. This creates a sense of connection and pride among community members.

Promotes Healthier Lifestyles

Growing and consuming local produce encourages healthy eating habits and a closer connection to food origins. It also offers opportunities for people to engage in gardening, which is both mentally and physically beneficial.

Partners In Our Shared Space

LA COMPOST

WHAT IS LA COMPOST?

As a community based non-profit, LA Compost supports a healthy transition where food is never wasted, but returned to the soil for the next cycle of life. Cooperatively with a diverse network of partners within LA County, they co-create spaces for local compost access and engagement, restorative practices, and community empowerment. Community composting takes a collective effort.

CUF x LA COMPOST

CUF has been a partner of LA Compost since 2017 and operates one of their largest regional hubs in the San Fernando Valley. Community members are invited to drop off their food scraps 24/7 via the drop off center located at the front of the farm. LA Compost also hosts weekly volunteer opportunities and community workshops weekly on Saturdays at CUF. Explore any upcoming events here.

BLACK THUMB FARM

Our on-site partner, Black Thumb Farm, runs continuously cycling BIPOC-centered farming practices. They implement and educate on closed-loop practices that are beneficial for our local ecosystem, for people, and for the earth at large. Some have deemed these practices as "regenerative", but they believe in crediting our indigenous ancestors with these brilliant farming ways.

LONG TERM THINKING

"We focus on long-term soil health, so we can improve the soil for ourselves but also for generations to come. This means composting for nutrient-rich soil, cover cropping, and mulching during the warm seasons (for moisture retention). We also practice the no- till method by building on top of our soils instead of tilling them, which releases carbon and disturbs fungi, bacteria, and invertebrate keeping our soil alive!"

FEEDING THE COMMUNITY

"85% of the crops we grow are culturally relevant to our youth and their families. During our programming year, all of the food grown on the farm is harvested and taken home by our program participants. We prioritize growing culturally relevant crops so the food grown can be used and eaten, limiting waste and prioritizing our people's heritage and culture."

BEHIND THE BEET

Behind the Beet’s mission is aimed at cultivating unique and dynamic experiences that make healthy living accessible by educating and inspiring others to nurture their own sustainability and resilience.

ACCESSIBLE HEALTH & WELLNESS

As a newly formed 501-c3 non-profit headquartered at CUF, Behind the Beet hosts monthly workshops with local community facilitators and teachers to share skills, and knowledge to give community members the tools to grow and nurture their own health and wellness.

PRACTICING OUR OWN VALUES

Behind the Beet’s founder, Vane Millon Kuhn, is also a certified Integrative Health Coach and brings her passion and knowledge to the CUF community and its ever evolving landscape.