Help Farmers Protect the Best Farmland in the World
CURRENT COUNTIES SERVED
Sacramento, San Joaquin, Contra Costa, Stanislaus, Merced, Madera, and Fresno
Board Officers:
Sam Zanutto, Sebastopol | President
Theresa Kiehn, Modesto | Vice President
Bill Hoobler, Patterson | Secretary
Michael Machado, Linden | Treasurer
Directors:
Patrick Johnston, Brentwood
Ken Oneto, Elk Grove
Ron Freitas, Modesto
Ryan Jacobsen, Fresno
Jim Jorgensen, Rocklin
Maxwell Norton, Merced
Barbara Smith, Courtland
Mike Wade, Modesto
Carrie Isaacson, Vacaville
Trustee Council:
Emily Rooney
Ann Veneman
Paul Wenger
Ron Dolinsek
Staff:
Charlotte Mitchell
Executive Director
Matthew Grizzle
Operations Director
Amy Wolfe
Development Manager
Quinn Mulrooney
Conservation Manager
CFT 20th Anniversary Op-Ed
On Saturday, November 2, California Farmland Trust (CFT) celebrated its 20th anniversary in a one-hundred-year-old barn located in Modesto’s Wood Colony. While CFT’s offices are in Elk Grove, it seemed fitting to hold the celebration in Modesto where CFT’s story began, at Carol Whiteside’s Great Valley Center.
The Great Valley Center focused on the bounty and challenges in California’s Central Valley – the Great Central Valley. One of the challenges was protecting its ag land, arguably, the most productive in the world. There were others in Stanislaus County who shared Carol Whiteside’s concern for the long-term preservation of farmland.
One pioneer was Bob Gallo, a local businessman and landowner. Long before CFT, Bob joined the Board of American Farmland Trust, a nationwide farmland trust that had identified the Central Valley as the most threatened farmland in the world and committed resources to permanently secure farmland. Denny Jackman was recognized as a leading voice for farmland preservation in Stanislaus County. Jackman was a founding member of the Farmland Working Group, a local organization committed to educating and advocating for the long-term protection of farmland in Stanislaus County.
There were other pioneers. Vance Kennedy, a retired geologist, was persistent with his facts about groundwater and soils, and prolific in his letters to the editor. Kennedy was never shy about bending the ears of elected officials. Two of those elected officials were Stanislaus County Supervisors Jim DeMartini and Roland Starn, both vocal in the need for farmland protection in the county. In1999, Stanislaus County tapped a group of citizens to explore the feasibility of forming a farmland trust.
The committee saw the opportunity to create a farmland trust. A handful of committee members began work on creating the trust. Meetings were held at the Great Valley Center. Tim Byrd, an attorney for E. & J. Gallo Winery, had served on the citizen’s committee. He was charged with addressing the legal work. In 2000, Stanislaus Farmland Trust was established. Denny Jackman was a Founding Director. The SFT Board looked to Merced County for guidance. A single-minded group from Merced’s California Women for Agriculture (CWA) was the force that helped establish Merced County Farmland and Open Space Trust. MCFOST was permanently preserving farmland, years ahead of SFT.
To the north, farmers in San Joaquin County and Sacramento County had farmland mitigation funds to permanently secure farmland. Both counties needed a sustainable land trust to put those funds to work. Further north, Yolo Land Trust had a farmland mitigation policy that secured an acre of farmland for every acre taken for development. The City of Davis, within Yolo County, had a 2:1 mitigation policy; for every acre of farmland that was developed, two acres of farmland had to be conserved. YLT has permanently secured over 13,000 acres.
The Great Valley Center was receiving funds to implement farmland protection. GVC grant money was used to hire a consultant to explore the feasibility of merging MCFOST, SFT, San Joaquin County Conservation Working Group and Sacramento Valley Agricultural Land Conservancy into a single land trust. In 2004, a regional farmland trust, encompassing Sacramento, San Joaquin, Stanislaus and Merced counties was formed. Central Valley Farmland Trust opened its offices in Elk Grove with its first Executive Director, Bill Martin.
In 2017, CVFT expanded, taking in another land trust, Brentwood Agricultural Land Trust. Bill Martin retired and with a new name, California Farmland Trust hired its first Executive Director, Charlotte Mitchell. CFT has permanently protected 18,260 acres on 85 farms in seven counties. None of this would have been accomplished without the early pioneers’ vision and persistence. Nor, without the millions of dollars in grants that Carol Whiteside’s Great Valley Center provided, as well as the ongoing support of many farmers and individuals.
Jeani Ferrari Founding Director –Stanislaus Farmland Trust
Central Valley Farmland Trust
Farmland Working Group
California Farmland Trust
Welcomes New Board & Trustee Council Members
CARRIE ISAACSON Board Member
California Farmland Trust is excited to announce the appointment of Carrie Isaacson to its Board of Directors. With over a decade of experience in agricultural marketing and a deeprooted passion for California agriculture, Carrie brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the organization.
While not born on a farming operation, Carrie’s connection to agriculture began early through her involvement in 4-H and FFA. She pursued her passion further by studying agricultural communications at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. This educational foundation paved the way for a successful career at broadhead, a full-service marketing agency with a strong agricultural focus, where she currently serves as Vice President and Account Director. In her role at broadhead, Carrie leads cross-functional marketing campaigns across various sectors, including animal health, dairy nutrition, crop nutrition, and specialty crop marketing orders. Her leadership and innovative approach have made significant impacts in the agricultural community.
Carrie’s commitment to the industry extends beyond her professional work. She has been actively involved with California Young Farmers and Ranchers and the National Agri-Marketing Association. As a graduate of Class 51 of the California Agricultural Leadership Program, she has gained valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing California agriculture today.
Since 2020, Carrie has been a dedicated member of CFT’s Strategic Marketing and Philanthropy Committee, contributing to the organization’s mission to support sustainable farming practices and community engagement. She is eager to expand her involvement and support CFT’s vision as a member of the Board of Directors.
“I am thrilled to join the Board of Directors at California Farmland Trust,” said Carrie. “I look forward to working collaboratively to further our mission of fostering sustainable agriculture and supporting California farmers.”
RON DOLINSEK Trustee Council
California Farmland Trust is pleased to announce the appointment of Ron Dolinsek to its Trustee Council. With a deep-rooted commitment to agriculture and a strong belief in the importance of preserving California’s prime farmland, Ron brings valuable experience and passion to the organization.
Ron Dolinsek, a resident of Lincoln, has spent a significant portion of his life connected to agriculture. Growing up in Santa Rosa, he was an active member of the local Future Farmers of America (FFA), where he gained hands-on experience working with livestock and dairy. After a successful 34-year career in the Farm Credit System, Ron is now dedicated to ensuring that California’s agricultural heritage endures.
“The California Farmland Trust is diligent and highly effective in preserving prime farmland in the area we serve and enjoys an excellent reputation for its commitment and service to agriculture,” Ron stated. “We are good at what we do!” Ron previously served on the Board of Directors for ten years and is also a past President.
With his wife Georgetta, Ron has raised two married daughters and is the proud grandfather of five. Together, they enjoy overseas travel, where Ron often reflects on the unique blessings of living in California, particularly its rich agricultural landscape.
As California faces an accelerated rate of housing and commercial development encroaching on its most fertile lands, Ron emphasizes the urgent need to protect what remains. He believes that safeguarding this precious resource is essential for future generations to enjoy the agricultural legacy that has shaped the state.
“I see the necessity to protect our farmland for the sake of future generations,” Ron said. “It’s crucial that we take action now to preserve what we have.”
Fourth Annual Race to Slow the Pace Presented In Partnership
Throughout California, farmland is undergoing urbanization at an alarming rate, which is why slowing the pace of development is crucial to protecting the agricultural industry.
On September 15th, over 200 people gathered under Bokisch Vineyards’ historic 100-year-old oak tree for the California Farmland Trust’s fourth annual Race to Slow the Pace 5K/10K, presented in partnership with the John and Jeani Ferrari Family Foundation. This family, stroller, and pet friendly trail run was designed to foster a connection to the land, highlighting the need to slow development to protect farmland. As runners weaved through scenic vineyard paths in the Lodi countryside, they were surrounded by vines, natural habitats, and open spaces that exemplify the beauty and importance of preserving California’s farmlands.
After the early morning race, participants enjoyed delicious paella, Bokisch wine, fresh fruit, and a lively raffle. Each participant left with a custom farmers market bag, a bottle of Fontana Farms Raspberry Chipotle Sauce, a bag of walnuts from the California Walnut Commission, and the chance to fill their bags with beautiful, fresh produce from Dwelley Family Farms. Fruit cups provided by Pacific Coast Producers added the perfect touch, underscoring our event goal – connecting consumers to the farms that feed their families.
We are deeply grateful for the support of all event sponsors, participants, volunteers, donors, and staff who made this event both successful and enjoyable.
We hope you will join us next year on September 14, 2025.
20th Anniversary Series A Legacy of Conservation
Written by Charlotte Mitchell
Since its inception in 2004, California Farmland Trust (CFT) has been a beacon of hope for preserving the state’s agricultural heritage. Driven by the passion and tenacity of its founders and members, CFT has evolved from a fledgling organization into a formidable force in farmland conservation. At the outset, CFT had protected 8,500 acres across a small number of family farms. Today, thanks to the relentless drive of our team, we have safeguarded an impressive 18,260 acres of prime farmland on 85 farms in six counties throughout the central valley, reflecting a remarkable growth in our capacity to make a difference.
Another pivotal moment in CFT’s history came in 2017, when the board of the Brentwood Agricultural Land Trust (BALT) approached us to discuss a potential merger. BALT was at a crossroads, weighing the possibilities of seeking accreditation and expanding independently or collaborating with likeminded organizations. Recognizing the strength in unity, BALT opted for the latter. In 2018, the California Farmland Trust was formed. This merger not only enhanced CFT’s capacity but also honored the legacy of both organizations. The integration of BALT’s board members, including presidents Jon Harvey and Patrick Johnston, into CFT’s governance underscored our commitment to preserving farmland across new territories and honoring those that had been enfolded into the organization.
As CFT grew, so did its staff. The demand from landowners eager to conserve their farmland called for an expansion of the organization’s capabilities. New positions, including a conservation manager, were established to better serve the community, and CFT relocated to a larger office to accommodate its growing team, which also included an operations director and development manager. This expansion allowed CFT to continue its mission while increasing its portfolio of conservation easements.
California Farmland Trust Organizes 2018 Strategic Planning Session
Left to right: Charlotte Mitchell, Maxwell Norton, Ed Nishio, Barbara Smith, George Gomes, Tim Byrd, Jim Gwerder, Ron Dolinsek, Paul Wenger, Ron Freitas, Jon Harvey, Ken Oneto, Mike Darnell, Melanee Cottrill
Middle school students at Paul Revere Charter Middle School located in Los Angeles are learning about why we should protect farmland with the Orange You Glad We Have Farmland activity.
Partnerships have been a cornerstone of CFT’s success. Since our collaboration with Raley’s began nearly two decades ago, the relationship has flourished. Together, we’ve developed initiatives like the Orange You Glad You Have Farmland curriculum, emphasizing the importance of agricultural education and awareness among the public.
In September 2021, CFT launched the inaugural Race to Slow the Pace, a vibrant 5k/10k trail run event aimed at connecting people with the land. This initiative, developed in partnership with Markus and Liz Bokisch, also founding members of CFT, encapsulated our vision of fostering a deeper relationship between communities and the agricultural landscapes that sustain them.
On November 2nd, we came together to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the California Farmland Trust with family, friends, and farmland supporters who have been instrumental in our journey. This gathering was not just a celebration; it was also honoring the founding organizations and a heartfelt tribute to our past. As we reminisced about our achievements and milestones, we were reminded of the collective vision that brought us to this moment.
Looking ahead, we remain steadfast in our commitment to helping farmers achieve their conservation goals. At the core of our mission is the principle of “protect, preserve, promote.” We recognize the urgent need to safeguard California’s agricultural heritage, as each year, we lose approximately 40,000 acres of farmland—a trend that shows no sign of slowing down. This reality underscores our mission and the importance of our work.
As we move forward, we are determined to expand our efforts to support farmers and landowners, ensuring that their voices are heard and their lands are protected. The demand for farmland
conservation is greater than ever, and we are poised to meet that challenge with renewed energy and dedication.
This article marks the conclusion of our series celebrating 20 years of impact and growth. With the strong foundation built over the past two decades, we look forward to a future filled with possibilities, where we can continue to advocate for and empower the farmers who are the backbone of our agricultural landscape. Together, we will protect, preserve, and promote the rich agricultural legacy of California for generations to come.
CALIFORNIA FARMLAND TRUST MERGED ORGANIZATION BOARD MEMBERS 2018-2019
Ron Freitas - President
Jon Harvey - Vice President
Maxwell Norton - Secretary
Ken Oneto - Treasurer
Barbara Smith - Past President
Tim Byrd
Mike Darnell
Ron Dolinsek
Larry Ruhstaller
Jim Jorgensen
Patrick Johnston
Denny Jackman
Jim Gwerder
Tom Bloomfield & Barbara Smith signing the BALT & CVFT merger documents in 2018, thus officially forming the California Farmland Trust.
CFT Golf Team having some fun at the 2018 SCFB Golf Tournament. Standing left to right: Ray Jerd, Ed Nisho, George Gomes Lying down: Tom Coultas
As we approach Giving Tuesday on December 3rd, we invite you to join us in making a significant impact on California’s agricultural landscape through our "Save An Acre" campaign. This annual day of giving offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a cause that resonates deeply with our community and our environment.
Each acre of California farmland we protect not only preserves our agricultural heritage but also supports vital local agricultural economies. Your generosity directly empowers farmers to maintain their livelihoods while ensuring that our state remains a leader in sustainable food production. Imagine the ripple effect your donation can create—enhancing water conservation, promoting biodiversity, and securing fresh, healthy food systems for generations to come.
Contributing to the "Save An Acre" campaign means you’re also fostering environmental stewardship. By saving farmland, you help protect vital ecosystems that provide habitat for wildlife and enhance the overall health of our environment. Your support is a commitment to a sustainable future, ensuring that the landscapes we cherish remain vibrant and productive.
We are grateful for every donor who believes in our mission. Your contributions have made a difference, and as we gear up for Giving Tuesday, we want to celebrate you! Together, we can build stronger communities and secure the future of California’s agricultural lands.
Every dollar counts and together, we can save an acre at a time! Use the enclosed donation envelope or visit www.cftdonate.org today to make your gift. Thank you for your continued support and generosity this holiday season.
Sponsor Spotlight
G3 Enterprises
Please share your company’s mission and details you’d like the California Farmland Trust network to know.
G3 Ag Transportation is a provider of harvest hauling services for the ag industry throughout California. With over 40 years of experience, we focus on being a dependable partner, making sure crops get where they need to go safely and on time. We take the stress out of ag transportation, taking care of the logistics so farmers and processors can spend more time doing what they love.
Please share why your company is an annual major sponsor of California Farmland Trust.
We support the California Farmland Trust because we care about keeping California's farmland thriving for future generations. It's important to us to help protect the land that feeds us all, and being a sponsor is one way we can give back to the farming community.
Please share your company’s other areas of priority and commitment to our community.
We are involved in dozens of local ag non-profit organizations where G3 employees are directly involved at a local level to make a positive impact on the agricultural industry in California. We also believe in supporting local communities by working closely with farmers and processors to understand their challenges related to the transportation industry.
To learn more about G3 Enterprises visit, www.g3enterprises.com/logistics/transportation/ag
LEGACY
At California Farmland Trust, we are excited to bring you Community Connections, linking our network to like-minded, synergistic organizations doing good work for the betterment of our state's agricultural industry. We will feature events and activities as part of our monthly news, so make sure to sign up for our monthly e-news at cafarmtrust.org. If you have an event you would like us to share, send details to Amy Wolfe, Development Manager, at awolfe@cafarmtrust.org.
2024 ANNUAL MEETING & YF&R STATE CONFERENCE
DECEMBER 7-10, 2024
MONTEREY CONFERENCE CENTER & MONTEREY MARRIOTT
The California Farm Bureau invites you to join them in beautiful Monterey for the 2024 Annual Meeting and YF&R State Conference. This year, they celebrate their theme of "Stronger Together," highlighting the enduring value of the Farm Bureau in shaping a prosperous future for agriculture.
"At this pivotal gathering, we unite to explore new opportunities, share invaluable insights, and forge lasting connections that strengthen our agricultural community. Join us as we celebrate our successes, champion our shared goals, and embark on new chapters of growth and resilience. Together, we are stronger, and together, we will continue to build a brighter future for California agriculture."
https://www.cfbf.com/events/annual-meeting
ALMOND BOARD OF CALIFORNIA
ROOTED TOGETHER: THE ALMOND CONFERENCE
DECEMBER 10-12, 2024
SAFE CREDIT UNION CONVENTION CENTER, SACRAMENTO
"Registration is complimentary, and we encourage everyone to sign up early to secure your spot. Additionally, hotel accommodations are now available for booking. With rooms filling up fast, it's wise to reserve your stay soon."
Over 700 wine and grape industry exhibitors gather at the Unified to create the largest wine & grape conference and trade show in the Western Hemisphere.
https://www.unifiedsymposium.org
MERCED COUNTY FARM BUREAU AG SUMMIT
DECEMBER 17TH, 2024 @ COLLEGE GREENS BUILDING, LOS BANOS
JANUARY 15TH, 2025 @ UC COOPERATIVE EXTENSION, MERCED
Join MCFB to hear industry experts present information on water legislation, labor issues, current research and more.
https://www.mercedfarmbureau.org
California Farmland Trust Anniversary Celebration
On November 2nd, we celebrated two decades of innovation, collaboration, and achievement at the California Farmland Trust. What an unforgettable milestone it has been! Our 20th Anniversary event was a momentous occasion, bringing together founding members, partners, and supporters for an evening filled with reflection, excitement, and anticipation for the future.
There was no better way to celebrate our achievements in farmland conservation than by hosting the event at the historic barn owned by founding board members and steadfast supporters, Tim and Suzanne Byrd, in the Wood Colony area of Modesto—an area rich in agricultural production yet under intense development pressure for conversion to housing and shopping centers.
The evening began with a warm welcome from Board President Sam Zanutto, followed by a salute to the American flag and an invocation led by Vice President Theresa Kiehn. Chef Ann Ensley of Greens on Tenth curated a tantalizing five-course dinner featuring locally sourced farm-raised products. Guests enjoyed passed appetizers and a charcuterie station, paired with wines from Bokisch Vineyards, Bogle, and Gallo. Seated at farm tables adorned with locally sourced greenery, attendees savored a harvest salad, butternut squash soup, and a choice of main entrée paired with autumn vegetables and a chive risotto cake. The evening concluded with a delightful apple galette served with vanilla gelato and warm butterscotch sauce.
Guests explored an exhibit showcasing key milestones, innovations, and behind-the-scenes moments from the past two decades. The timeline featured photos and stories highlighting pivotal events that have shaped our journey.
Our 20-year history began with three foundational organizations and one working group, later joined by another important land trust. A commemorative video illustrated our deep history of collaboration and passion, setting the stage for a panel discussion. Holly King, formerly with the Great Valley Center and instrumental in uniting the initial groups, served as the panel’s master of ceremonies. Joining her were Ken Oneto (Sacramento Valley Ag Land Conservancy), Jeani Ferrari (Stanislaus Farmland Trust and Merced County Farmland and Open Space Trust), Markus Bokisch (San Joaquin County Working Group), and Patrick Johnston (Brentwood Ag Land Trust). Together, they shared stories about our past and reflected on how we’ve continued to adapt and innovate in an ever-changing landscape.
While we took time to honor our past accomplishments, we also focused on the future. There is still work to be done to ensure farmland remains productive in California. With the growing interest of landowners and farmers, we are more inspired than ever to continue this vital work. Our journey is far from over, and we are deeply grateful to have such an incredible group of supporters alongside us.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has been part of our journey. Whether you’ve been with us since the beginning or joined us recently, your contributions have made this achievement possible. Here’s to 20 years of growth and many more to come!
Cheers to the past, the present, and the future of the California Farmland Trust!
Thank you again for celebrating this special occasion with us. We couldn’t have done it without you. To view the videos and photos from the evening, please visit www.cafarmtrust.org/20th.
Thank you to our 2024 sponsors, many of whom have provided California Farmland Trust with ongoing support for years. We appreciate their support and investment in the mission of our organization.
