California Ag Network

Tag: Ecological Farming Association

  • Ventura County Farmers, Researchers Convene to Explore Regenerative Ag

    Ventura County will host a two-field series about regenerative ag this May, bringing together growers, ag researchers and sustainability leaders to explore the future of the region’s specialty crops.

    The series will be presented in partnership with the Ecological Farming Association, and will allow attendees to examine practical approaches to regenerative farming across avocados, citrus and strawberries — three cornerstone crops in Ventura County.

    The series will begin May 4 at Rancho Dos Hermanas in Fillmore, where participants will explore regenerative strategies in orchard systems, putting a focus on soil health, biodiversity and water management. The second event will take place May 11 at McGrath Family fam in Camarillo. This event, in partnership with the Rodale Institute, will highlight regenerative approaches to strawberry production that support long-term productivity and ecological resilience.

    “Ventura County has long been an agricultural leader, and growers here are increasingly interested in systems that work with nature rather than against it,” Nina Morris Thomson, Co-Fournder of Ranco Dog Hermanas. “This series is designed to bring farmers and scientists together to share knowledge, exchange ideas and strengthen the future of agriculture in our region.”

    People speaking and contributing to the event include:

    • Dr. Jonathan Lundgren, Founder of the Ecdysis Foundation and the 1000 Farm Initiative

    • Tony Serrano, regenerative organic certified farmer, Salinas Valley
    Phil McGrath, McGrath Family Farms

    • Researchers from Cal Poly Pomona studying diversified orchard systems

    • Experts in pest management, irrigation efficiency, biodiversity and organic certification

  • EcoFarm names Jan Derecho as Executive Director

    Soquel, Calif., (January 30, 2017) – The Ecological Farming Association (EcoFarm) is excited to announce Jan Derecho as its executive director. Formally it’s interim executive director, EcoFarm is thrilled to welcome Jan to her permanent position. A seasoned leader, Ms. Derecho will guide EcoFarm’s mission to nurture healthy, just, and sustainable farms, food systems, and communities.

    A lover of music, bike-riding, and organic eats, Ms. Derecho brings to EcoFarm many years of diverse experience. Jan spent ten years as executive director of the Santa Cruz Symphony, in addition to her tenure on the board and one year as president. With a background in banking and a history of successfully tackling deficits, Jan brings her strength of sound financial management and development to the organization.

    Jan has been the beloved mother hen to the currently all-female EcoFarm staff since April of 2016. With both a gentle heart and steady leadership, Jan’s tenure as interim executive director has enabled her a chance to get well acquainted with the organization and become an effective liaison among its board, staff, partners, and the broader community. The organization looks forward to Jan applying her expertise and vision to assist EcoFarm’s growth for years to come.