The Land

Habitat

We recognize the important role that both play in supporting the local ecosystem and preserving wildlife habitat, and we take great care in managing habitat areas on our land that are crucial resources for migrating waterfowl and other species.

Our habitat management practices include protecting and enhancing natural areas that provide food and shelter for wildlife. We also work to restore and maintain native vegetation, which supports a diverse array of plant and animal species.

By carefully managing these habitats, we are able to promote biodiversity and preserve important ecosystems for future generations. Our commitment to responsible land management extends beyond our own property, as we work with other landowners and conservation organizations to create a network of protected lands throughout the San Joaquin Valley.

Soil

The health of our farm depends on the quality of our soil, which serves as the cornerstone of our success and sustainability. Our farm encompasses a diverse range of soils, from those with higher sand content to those with more clay, and we employ unique soil health strategies tailored to each field.

We’re committed to increasing organic matter in our soil and exploring methods for carbon sequestration within our farm operations, aiming for a no-impact or even a beneficial contribution to the supply chain. Working alongside research institutions, we strive to quantify the effectiveness of our soil health practices and further improve our land stewardship.

 

Water

As a California company, we recognize the critical value of water for the environment, communities, and agriculture. We aim to maximize water efficiency and crop yield by matching the correct irrigation practice to each of our crops, using only the exact amount of water each crop needs. Our unique climate in California allows us to grow higher quality crops with higher production per drop of water than is possible in other regions.

Through our investment in drip irrigation systems and infrastructure covering 80% of our farmland, we have reduced applied water by 30-50% while improving crop quality and yield. Our water conservation investment in drip irrigation is powered by our investment in renewable energy.

Compost

Our On-Farm Compost Center revolutionizes the way we manage organic waste, unlocking a powerful resource that enhances soil health, boosts crop productivity, and fosters a more resilient and sustainable agricultural ecosystem, all while mitigating environmental impact and advancing the circular economy.