Meet the Team

At Gregarious Gardens, we believe that growing food is about more than just growing plants. It’s about cultivating connection to the ecosystem around us. Our team brings together years of experience in ecological farming, design, and community engagement. We’re here to help you reimagine your yard, garden, or community green space as a place of abundance, beauty, and nourishment.

Whether we’re designing a small backyard garden or collaborating on a larger landscape, we approach each project with curiosity, care, and a deep respect for the land and those who steward the land. Together, we grow more than gardens. We grow relationships with the Earth, each other, and the places we call home.

  • Co-Owner

    Bernard brings a rich blend of global experience and hands-on skill to Gregarious Gardens. Originally from Madagascar, he has worked on sustainable agriculture and forestry initiatives around the world. His past experiences include revitalizing coffee production in the South Kivu region of the Democratic Republic of Congo, developing micro-farming training programs in Senegal, and supporting improved agricultural practices at the Botanical Garden of Quito in Ecuador.

    He has also shared his knowledge in the classroom, teaching woodworking and related subjects at SUNY ESF, SUNY Morrisville, and Utica University. A lifelong craftsman, Bernard is passionate about woodworking, gardening, and connecting with nature. He currently manages urban community gardens with RISE in Syracuse.

    At Gregarious Gardens, Bernard brings together his love for land, craft, and education to help create abundant, place-based landscapes that nourish both people and ecosystems.

  • Co-Owner

    Jacob has spent nearly two decades growing food. He first found his love for growing in community gardens of Chicago and went on to manage farms across California, Wisconsin, and North Carolina. For the past 5 years, he has served as the Executive Director of Salt City Harvest Farm, where he supports diverse communities in growing culturally important foods and building stronger relationships with the land.

    Through Gregarious Gardens, Jacob brings this experience to a range of spaces. His approach is rooted in ecological farming, informed by permaculture design training, and shaped by years of hands-on collaboration. Whether you’re looking to grow food outside your kitchen door or create a productive landscape that serves your organization or neighborhood, Jacob brings practical knowledge, care, and creativity to every project.