Organic Farmer
Background:
I am a third-generation farmer in Kingsburg, Kings County. I am an organic raisin grape and
stone fruit farmer.
Connection to Regenerative Agriculture:
When the farm transitioned to organic in 2003, herbicide use was eliminated so I used cover
crops to compete with the weeds as well as build soil health. Compost applications were added
instead of commercial fertilizer. Minimum tillage is what is currently practiced. Mowing and
mulching has replaced almost all discing and cultivating on the farm. These regenerative
practices help build soil organic matter and soil moisture levels.
Areas of Passion/Expertise:
Organic farming has made the change to regenerative farming a natural practice. Conventional
farming can benefit from regenerative practices and save money in the long run.
Personal Note:
My grandparents emigrated in 1917. Being a 3 rd generation farmer has been a struggle to survive
as a small family farm. My hope is that family farms will be able to survive in the years to
come.