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
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
Where Land, Food, and Community Meet
Dear Friends,
As you flip through the pages of this issue of Legacy, you’ll quickly discover a recurring theme: connection to the land, to our food, and each other.
This edition takes us to Brentwood, a community where agriculture is more than an industry; it’s a lifestyle. Amid suburban expansion and shifting economies, this corner of California is holding fast to its roots while inviting others in. It’s a place where farm stands, U-pick orchards, and sunset concerts aren’t just seasonal pleasures, they’re cultural traditions.
In these pages, you’ll meet the remarkable families behind:
• Dwelley Family Farms, a centennial operation balancing innovation with legacy, community support, and an unwavering dedication to farmland stewardship.
• Very Mulberry, where Himalayan mulberries and joyful agritourism transform picking fruit into unforgettable family experiences.
• The Urban Edge, a small but mighty organic farm committed to pollinator habitats, school partnerships, and building food literacy from the soil up.
You’ll also get a taste of Brentwood’s thriving U-pick movement, guided in part by our friends at Brentwood Harvest Time, whose maps and community outreach help thousands reconnect with the land each season. And, for a perfect pairing of agriculture and artistry, look no further than Hannah Nicole Vineyards, where local wine meets live music in the glow of golden hour. All of the farms mentioned in the Bountiful Brentwood article are currently under easement or their owners are part of the CFT family.
Together, these stories reflect the power and potential of conserved farmland. They remind us that agriculture is not just about feeding people, it’s about anchoring communities, shaping identities, and sustaining traditions that matter
At California Farmland Trust, we’re proud to support the landowners and partners who make these legacies possible. And we’re honored to share their stories with you.
Enjoy this issue, and may it inspire your connection to the land.
Charlotte Mitchell Executive Director
CFT Achieves National Accreditation for the 4 th Time!
California Farmland Trust (CFT) has once again achieved national accreditation for excellence in land conservation, marking its fourth successful renewal since first being accredited in 2007.
Awarded by the independent Land Trust Accreditation Commission, this designation recognizes CFT’s strong financial practices, ethical standards, and lasting commitment to protecting farmland.
Thanks to its proven track record, CFT’s accreditation has now been extended from five to seven years.
“Accreditation validates the trust our communities, farmers, donors, and grantmakers place in our work.” – Charlotte Mitchell, Executive Director
Sponsor Spotlight
Please share your company’s mission and details you’d like the California Farmland Trust network to know:
Farm Credit helps California agricultural producers feed the world, rural businesses grow and rural families thrive. We support rural communities and agriculture with reliable, consistent credit and financial services today and tomorrow. Farm Credit is a nationwide network of customer-owned cooperatives. Our customers are at the heart of everything we do.
Please share why your company is an annual major sponsor of California Farmland Trust:
Farm Credit's mission is to support agriculture and rural communities. California Farmland Trust shares this commitment with us as they work to preserve the future of agriculture. We are both dedicated to ensuring the sustainability and vitality of
farming, protecting valuable farmland from non-agricultural development, and promoting the sustainability of our industry. We are proud to be sponsors of an organization with such a noble mission and proven success of having a positive impact on agriculture in our state.
Please share your company’s other areas of priority and commitment to our community (2-3 sentences).
We are part of the communities we serve and are dedicated to supporting California agriculture for future generations. Farm Credit helps young people develop leadership and agricultural skills, assists new farmers with education and financial training, and strengthens rural communities through volunteerism, entrepreneurship support, and disaster relief.
Brentwood Bountiful
How Brentwood, The Charming Farming Town, Is Becoming Northern California’s Favorite U-Pick Destination
Nestled between the Delta and the foothills of Mount Diablo, Brentwood, California, is a community where fields stretch wide and the seasons are marked not by calendars, but by the ripening of fruit. It’s a town where agriculture isn’t just history, it’s identity. For over a century, Brentwood has been feeding the region, cultivating crops, and welcoming visitors to experience its deep farming roots firsthand.
Today, that legacy continues with a modern twist: U-pick farms. These hands-on experiences, where visitors pick their own produce straight from the source, have become a hallmark of the region. They offer a charming balance of family fun, food education, and seasonal ritual, drawing in families from across the Bay Area and beyond. But more than a day trip, Brentwood’s U-pick scene is a bridge between generations, between city and countryside, and between farm and fork.
As development continues to expand across California, places like Brentwood remain vital. The city's unique blend of U-pick operations and conventional farming preserves not only open space, but also the region’s agricultural integrity. While U-pick engages the public, conventional farms like Dwelley Family Farms continue to feed communities, steward land, and support local economies on a larger scale. Together, they form a landscape
of productivity, sustainability, and seasonal beauty. CFT, in partnership with family farmers, have protected 1,341 acres of farmland in and around Brentwood.
In the pages that follow, we invite you on a guided journey through Brentwood’s agricultural heart. Your experience begins with Harvest Time in Brentwood, the nonprofit organization connecting visitors to farms across the area. With maps, events, and insider tips, they make it easy to plan the perfect outing. Then, you’ll make your way to a few standout destinations. Each offers a unique window into the Brentwood farming experience.
First, Dwelley Family Farms, a multi-generational operation known for its impeccable sweet corn, heirloom tomatoes, and massive community support. Dwelley seamlessly blends tradition with innovation, growing food for local markets while supporting food banks and farmland conservation efforts.
Next stop: Very Mulberry at Habibita Farms, home to the country’s largest Himalayan mulberry U-pick. This farm has reimagined the U-pick experience, offering everything from shaded picking lanes to picnic areas and even plans for a family-friendly train ride through the
behind each piece of fruit and why protecting farmland matters. And for local farmers, these visits aren’t just transactions, they’re conversations, community-building moments that help sustain their businesses and the Brentwood way of life.
Meanwhile, conventional farms keep the local economy strong and the food chain resilient. They provide jobs, protect biodiversity, and maintain valuable farmland in a region under pressure from rapid urbanization. Together, these farms, both the pick-yourown and the commercial growers, are preserving the soul of Brentwood, acre by acre, season by season.
So, whether you're a first-time picker or a long-time local, this harvest journey through Brentwood offers something timeless: a reminder that food is more than something we buy. It’s something we grow, we share, and we celebrate.
Where Tradition Meets Taste
HARVEST TIME IN BRENTWOOD
As we start our grand tour of the Brentwood area, there is no better place to start than with the nonprofit organization that is striving to connect them all. In the sun-drenched heart of Contra Costa County, Brentwood blossoms each summer into a hub of harvest, hospitality, and hands-on agriculture. But this thriving U-pick destination didn’t happen overnight. It started, quite literally, with a bag of sugar.
During the 1940s, women from Richmond would drive out to Brentwood, ration coupons in hand, looking to preserve fresh fruit by canning. Their discovery? The region’s peaches were unmatched. Soon, farmers were inviting the public to pick their fruit, bypassing wholesale markets and inviting a personal connection to the land. From these humble roots, Brentwood’s U-pick movement was
Within just a few miles, visitors can pick cherries, mulberries, blueberries, flowers, and more, making it a one-of-a-kind destination for families and food lovers alike.
The economic and cultural impact of this seasonal surge is profound. For many farms, U-pick is the heart of their business model. For others, it’s a cherished extension. But one thing is clear: the thousands of visitors who come each year make it possible for these farms, and the town’s agricultural identity, to thrive.
“If we didn’t have as many people coming out,” Jessica shares, “we wouldn’t have as many farms. And if we didn’t have the farms, people wouldn’t come. It’s all connected.”
But Harvest Time is about more than marketing. It’s about preserving the legacy
“Our
farming culture here is incredibly community-oriented, if my
is closed, I’ll send visitors to the one down the street. We all want each other to succeed, because preserving this way of life means working together.”
— Jessica Enos
By the late 1970s, ten local farmers united with a shared vision: to put Brentwood on the map, literally. They pooled their money to create a printed farm trail guide, forming what is now known as Harvest Time in Brentwood. Today, this nonprofit organization includes around 60 farms and continues to connect the public to Brentwood’s rich agricultural landscape through both physical and digital maps, marketing, and education.
“Our mission is simple,” explains Jessica Enos, a Harvest Time representative. “We help people find local farms, learn about where their food comes from, and experience the joy of picking it themselves.”
And Brentwood delivers. With the most U-pick farms west of the Appalachian Mountains, and some of the oldest, Brentwood has earned its title as the U-Pick Capital of Northern California.
of Brentwood’s farming families, many of whom have been working the same land for generations. It’s about creating space for kids to learn where their food comes from, for urban dwellers to reconnect with the seasons, and for neighbors to become extended family.
Despite Brentwood’s growing population and development pressures, the farms endure, thanks in no small part to Harvest Time’s commitment to community and collaboration.
“Our farming culture here is incredibly community-oriented,” she adds. “If my farm is closed, I’ll send visitors to the one down the street. We all want each other to succeed, because preserving this way of life means working together.”
In Brentwood, harvest isn’t just a season, it’s a celebration. And thanks to Harvest Time, it welcomes everyone.
Dwelley Family Farms GROWS MORE THAN PRODUCE;
The first stop on our U-Pick tour, located in the heart of Brentwood’s fertile farmland, Dwelley Family Farms has been growing food and family for over a century. What began in 1921 as a small family operation has blossomed into a farm that helps feed the region, supports local jobs, and anchors Brentwood’s deep agricultural identity.
While farming methods have evolved, the Dwelley family’s commitment to hard work, community, and high-quality produce remains unchanged. The farm is now led by a multigenerational team, including in-laws, cousins, and even the youngest generation, who proudly wear “staff” shirts during cherry season.
“It means the world,” says co-owner Patrick Johnston, reflecting on the legacy. “And it comes with a real sense of responsibility.”
Fields That Feed the Region
Dwelley Family Farms grows a vibrant array of crops, including sweet corn, green beans, cherries, apricots, melons, squash, and tomatoes, many of which are certified organic. What started as conventional farming has shifted: today, more than half of their acreage is organic, a decision driven by sustainability and consumer demand.
Their produce ships to major retailers like Whole Foods, Safeway, and Walmart, while their fruit stand and U-pick orchards bring visitors straight to the source. With relationships spanning from local food banks to regional markets, Dwelley Farms nourishes communities beyond city limits.
Where Agriculture Meets Innovation
THEY GROW COMMUNITY
tools powering their 24-hour operations during peak season. Still, much of their produce, especially their famous green beans, is harvested by hand, ensuring a premium product that has become a staple at farmers’ markets and on restaurant menus alike.
Dwelley Family Farms
FARM STAND: 515 DELTA RD, OAKLEY, CA 94561
U-PICK CHERRIES: 2475 CONCORD AVE, BRENTWOOD, CA 1454 WALNUT BLVD, BRENTWOOD CA
They’re also a proving ground for agricultural research, hosting seed trials and welcoming other growers to learn from their findings. It’s a collaborative spirit that benefits not just their farm, but the region’s entire farming ecosystem.
“We want all farms here to thrive. You don’t last for generations by going it alone.”
A Lasting Impact on Brentwood
“We want all farms here to thrive. You don’t last for generations by going it alone.”
— Patrick Johnston
Though deeply rooted in tradition, Dwelley Farms embraces modern technology. Robotic weeders, infrared crop sensors, and on-site ice injection systems are just some of the
Beyond produce, Dwelley Farms is woven into Brentwood’s social fabric. They donate hundreds of thousands of pounds of food annually to local food banks and churches. They support Liberty High School’s sports programs across generations. And through supporting events like CFT's annual “Race to Slow the Pace” and their organic cherry U-pick, they continue to connect city dwellers with their agricultural roots. As Brentwood continues to grow and change, Dwelley Farms remains a steady presence—reminding the city of its roots.
“We’re always thinking about the future,” Patrick says. “Because farming isn’t just what we do, it’s who we are.”
Visit the fruit stand or explore U-pick offerings during cherry season at DwelleyFarms.com.
Very Mulberry: GROWING
Very Mulberry
501 HOFFMAN LN, BRENTWOOD, CA
THE COMMUNITY, ONE BERRY AT A TIME
Next up on our tour, nestled among the cherries, peaches, and strawberries, one farm stands out for its rich color, global nostalgia, and superfruit status: Very Mulberry, the largest Himalayan mulberry U-pick farm in the United States.
Newly planted in 2018, the farm began as a dream for founder Anil Godhwani, who purchased the land with a CFT conservation easement in place and has since grown Habitera Farms into an 84-acre oasis in Brentwood, now welcoming tens of thousands of visitors every season.
A Fruit Meant to Be Picked
Himalayan mulberries are delicate—so soft and juicy, they barely last more than four days after being picked. This fragility makes them almost impossible to find in grocery stores, but perfect for a hands-on, farm-fresh experience.
“The fruit really wants to be U-picked,” says Godhwani. “We respect that.”
“We want to make this a place where memories are made,” says Godhwani.
Rooted in Brentwood’s Community
Very Mulberry is more than just a destination; it’s becoming a vital part of the Brentwood fabric. The farm partners with local nonprofit Harvest Time to connect with other growers, hosts bloggers and influencers to promote local agriculture, and recently launched Heroes Week, offering free admission and berries to veterans, nurses, firefighters, and law enforcement.
“We want to make this a place where memories are made.”
Very Mulberry’s season stretches over 7–8 weeks, with trees ripening gradually. Families are invited to pick at their own pace, using custom-designed berry catchers that make harvesting easy and fun, especially for kids. It’s not unusual to find multigenerational families wandering the orchard, swapping stories of mulberry trees from childhoods in India, Greece, Iran, or China.
A Place for Everyone
— Anil Godhwani
Additionally, the farm sits on a permanent agricultural easement, protected in partnership with the California Farmland Trust to ensure this land remains farmland forever. It’s a model for preserving open space while cultivating modern, inclusive agritourism.
Brentwood’s Berry Future
As Brentwood grows, so does its identity as a farming-forward city with deep roots and fresh flavor. Very Mulberry brings something rare and meaningful to that mix. A globally loved fruit, locally grown and shared with care.
This isn’t just a U-pick farm. It’s a love letter to nature, heritage, and the people who gather here.
What started small has grown quickly. In just a few short years, the farm has welcomed visitors from over 50 countries, and it’s not slowing down. On a single holiday weekend, they hosted over 14,000 guests.
To serve that growing crowd, the team is planning new experiences: shaded picnic areas, food and drink stations, music, and even the “Very Mulberry Express,” a berry-themed train ride for kids. The vision is to create a summer destination for families, where
Learn more or plan your visit at verymulberry.com
One Small Brentwood Farm Is Growing More Than Produce
Just down the street from Very Mulberry, and a few miles from downtown Brentwood, tucked between orchards and open roads, you’ll find The Urban Edge, a 12-acre organic farm doing more than growing fruits and vegetables. It’s a growing community.
“This isn’t just a farm. It’s a place where good things grow in the soil and in the soul.”
— Barbara Cecchini
Owned by a retired couple, Barbara and Bob Cecchini, who lovingly refer to it as a “hobby farm,” The Urban Edge may not generate profit, but its value is rooted in purpose. The farm employs local workers, partners with school programs, and is committed to sustainability. While many farms chase profit, The Urban Edge focuses on impact. The Cecchinis believe protecting these farming practices is important, and they were among the first in the Brentwood area to place one of their properties under CFT protection.
“This little farm can’t sustain a family, but it gives back in other ways,” says the owner. “It gives us joy, gives our workers jobs, and gives schools fresh, local food.”
One of the farm’s most important partnerships is with the Edible Schoolyard in Stockton. Each week, The Urban Edge fills CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) bags with six items of fresh, organic produce, helping educate young students about where food comes from while supporting food access in nearby urban areas.
At the heart of The Urban Edge is its organic ethos. Surrounded by roads and canals, the farm is a true “organic island,” protected from conventional spray drift. Native pollinator habitats line the property, owl boxes assist with pest control, and diversity in crops—ranging from apricots and plums to citrus, persimmons, and apples—keeps the land balanced and thriving. Even challenges, like aphids and drought, are met with care. “Some years are better than others,” they admit, “but the apricots have done really well this year.”
farm-to-table dinners, wine tastings, and events like “pioneer suppers” and pickle-and-cheese pairings. It’s about more than the food; it’s about sharing the story behind it.
“We want people to come here, walk the orchard, taste what’s in season, and feel that connection to the land.”
Even the old family boat has been transformed into a playhouse for visiting children, underscoring the farm’s familyfriendly and welcoming spirit.
In a town like Brentwood, where urban development increasingly pushes against agricultural edges, The Urban Edge is a quiet but powerful reminder of what makes the city special. It honors Brentwood’s farming heritage while helping shape its future, through education, sustainability, and community.
Beyond growing produce, The Urban Edge is creating space for community connection. Their on-site organic winery, run by a family member, is launching seasonal
It may be small in acreage, but its influence runs wide. From schoolchildren in Stockton to neighbors stopping by for fresh cherries, The Urban Edge is more than a farm. It’s a bridge between the land and the lives it touches.
“This isn’t just a farm. It’s a place where good things grow in the soil and in the soul.”
Urban
Three Nuns Farm
Down to Earth
AT THREE NUNNS FARM WHERE HARVEST, HOSPITALITY, AND HERITAGE MEET IN BRENTWOOD’S FIELDS
Just outside the heart of Brentwood, nestled among orchards and vineyards, Three Nunns Farm offers something rare: the chance to slow down, get your hands dirty, and reconnect with where your food comes from. Proudly rooted in Brentwood’s agricultural tradition, this family-owned farm is a shining example of how farming, fun, and community go hand in hand.
Spanning over 40 acres of fertile ground, Three Nunns is a seasonal destination that draws thousands each year. From spring strawberries to sun-ripened peaches and crisp apples, the farm’s U-pick experience brings visitors face-to-face with their food source. The experience is hands-on, immersive, and intentionally a bit wild, because the joy of discovery is part of the charm.
But it’s more than fruit. Guests can explore sunflower mazes, snap photos in wildflower fields, or hop on a tractor ride through the orchards. On any given weekend, the relaxed, festive atmosphere makes it the perfect backdrop for family outings, casual dates, or birthday parties.
In fall, the farm transforms into a harvest wonderland with its annual Fall Festival, a Brentwood favorite. From mid-September through October, the property is filled with pumpkins, a corn maze, hayrides, and seasonal décor. Visitors sip cider, browse local vendors, and make picture-perfect memories among the vibrant autumn scenery.
At the heart of it all is a deep-rooted farming legacy. "As 5th generation California farmers, we are so incredibly proud to continue our family’s farming legacy! Our goal is to continue to serve our community and provide a fun, educational location for locals and visitors to participate in the harvesting of the food they put on their tables. We are excited to have the opportunity to bring our own ‘modern twist’ on traditional farm stands!"
That commitment extends beyond the farm itself. The Nunn family has 132 acres of farmland under protection with CFT, ensuring prime agricultural land remains preserved and productive for future generations.
Three Nunns also plays an important role in Brentwood’s broader farming scene through its participation in the Harvest Time in Brentwood trail.
In an era when small farms face increasing challenges, Three Nunns stands out by cultivating connection, stewardship, and simple joy. It’s more than a farm; it’s a seasonal tradition, where community and agriculture thrive together.
For more information and details about the Fall Harvest Festival, visit threenunns.com
Hannah Nicole
WHERE WINE, MUSIC, AND OPEN SKIES DEFINE BRENTWOOD’S REFINED SIDE
End your U-pick tour tucked just beyond Brentwood’s orchards and farm stands at a place where vines roll into the distance and the scent of ripe grapes floats on a Delta breeze. At Hannah Nicole Vineyards, agriculture takes on a more elegant form, blending the artistry of winemaking with the relaxed charm of East Bay country life.
Hannah Nicole Vineyards & Winery
6700 BALFOUR RD, BRENTWOOD, CA
Hannah Nicole isn’t your typical winery. Set against the golden hills of Contra Costa County, it brings the full experience of a wine country getaway just minutes from Brentwood’s downtown. The estate, which is forever protected by CFT, stretches across acres of meticulously maintained vineyards, growing varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon, Viognier, Merlot, and Petite Sirah. The winery’s signature style leans on balance, quality, and showcasing the unique terroir of this often-overlooked growing region.
But what makes Hannah Nicole truly special isn’t just the wine, it’s the atmosphere. Wide open lawns, heritage trees, and panoramic mountain views make it a destination as much as a tasting room. Whether it’s a quiet weekday visit or a bustling Saturday event, the winery feels welcoming and thoughtfully curated, offering something for every palate and pace.
Throughout the year, the estate plays host to a calendar of experiences that go far beyond the wine glass. Their summer Concerts Under the Stars series has become a local favorite, drawing music lovers and families alike for evenings filled with live performances, food trucks, and clinking glasses beneath a twilight sky. The vibe is casual and celebratory, bringing a touch of Napa’s polish to Brentwood’s laid-back, hometown soul.
Seasonal events round out the offerings: grape harvest celebrations, wine and chocolate pairings in February, barrel tastings in spring, and curated culinary experiences featuring local chefs. Each one adds depth to the winery’s identity, not just as a place to taste, but to gather.
Though rooted in Brentwood’s agricultural community, the winery represents a different side of the region’s identity, one where sophistication meets sustainability, and where farming means fermentation and aging barrels as much as it means tractor rows and irrigation lines. It’s a reminder that agriculture wears many hats in this region, and that leisure, too, can be a product of the land.
At Hannah Nicole Vineyards, time moves a little slower, flavors are richer, and connection feels effortless. It’s more than a winery, it’s Brentwood’s open invitation to breathe, taste, and celebrate.
August 16th, 2025
Comedy Uncorked at HNV
Friday, August 22nd, 2025 | 6p to 9:30p R&B Night
Saturday, August 30th, 2025 | 6p to 9p Lobster Feast
August 31st, 2025 | 12p to 5p DJ Sunday Funday
September 1st, 2025 | 12p to 5p Labor Day in the Vineyards
September 13th, 2025 Rock With You – The Michael Jackson Tribute
September 18th, 2025 National Grenache Day
September 20th, 2025
Comedy Uncorked at HNV
September 26th, from 6p to 9:30p Friday Night Vibes
September 28th, 2025 | 12p to 5p
DJ Sunday Funday
Saturday, October 11th, 2025 | 6p to 9:30p Salsa Night
October 18th, 2025
Comedy Uncorked at HNV
Friday, October 24th, 2025 | 6p to 9:30p Halloween Dance Party
October 28th, 2025 | 12p to 5p
DJ Sunday Funday
Fontana Farms
BLENDING FAMILY FARMING, INNOVATION, AND A PASSION FOR PRESERVATION
In the fertile soil of California’s Central Valley, Fontana Farms is more than just a perfect paradise; it’s a story of generations, grit, and growth. Tucked into a modest 20-acre farm in Ceres, this family-run operation proves that small acreage can yield mighty impact, especially when purpose guides every harvest.
Founded in 1979 by a produce-loving father who spent decades managing grocery store aisles before planting his orchard rows, Fontana Farms has always operated from the heart. Early on, the family pulled out old wine grapes and replaced them with rows of Suncrest, O’Henry, and freestone peaches. Fruit that was meant not just for shipping but for savoring. Today, those juicy peaches and nectarines still make their way to farmers’ markets, where Fontana’s second and third generations continue the legacy of flavor and connection.
“We started doing farmers’ markets in the early 80s, before it was even cool,” shares Theresa Kiehn. “It was never just about selling produce. It was about talking to people, educating them, and building relationships.”
“Even if you’re not a farmer, you can be part of the movement. Support local. Know your grower. And protect the land that feeds us all.”
— Theresa Kiehn
But Fontana Farms isn’t just rooted in tradition. It’s also planting seeds for the future, both literally and through its passionate support of farmland conservation. Longtime advocate for the California Farmland Trust (CFT), Theresa has turned her love for land into leadership. Her connection with CFT began through nonprofit work and quickly evolved into advocacy, board service, and event sponsorship.
That’s where the Race to Slow the Pace comes in. Held annually at the beautiful Bokisch Vineyards, the race is part community fun run, part farmland preservation campaign, and Fontana Farms is all in. From sponsoring the event with farm-fresh produce and handmade sauces, to lacing up their sneakers and running the hills, the Fontana team is fully immersed.
“It was a no-brainer to sponsor,” says Theresa, “We love seeing people enjoy our produce and understand where it comes from. Events like this bring people together in such a meaningful way.”
At its core, Fontana Farms is about continuity, passing down values, stewardship, and a love for the land. Whether it’s at a weekend farmers market or cheering runners along vineyard trails, they’re showing what it means to grow with purpose.
“Even if you’re not a farmer, you can be part of the movement. Support local. Know your grower. And protect the land that feeds us all.”
Our annual Race to Slow the Pace 5K/10K, presented in partnership with the John and Jeani Ferrari Family Foundation, is a trail run held at Bokisch Vineyards in Lodi, CA, to connect people with nature, the environment and family farms that feed them, while furthering our mission. Our goal is to foster a connection to the land, and why we must slow the pace of development and protect farmland.
SEPTEMBER 14, 2025
BOKISCH VINEYARDS | LODI, CA
Another Big Day of Giving Success!
Once again, on May 1st, California Farmland Trust participated in the Big Day of Giving, hosted by the Sacramento Community Foundation. This 24-hour day of philanthropy encourages giving to charities across the region. We have had incredible success over the years, and 2025 was no different
Thanks to your collective generosity, we raised nearly $17,000 for farmland protection! Collectively, your efforts will help us protect farmland, preserve family farms, and promote agriculture education. We are deeply grateful for your commitment and connection to the farmland that feeds our families.
Put simply, we cannot do what we do without your support. Thank you again for your investment in our mission
Friends of Farmland Webinar
UNDERSTANDING AGRICULTURAL CONSERVATION EASEMENTS
Thank you to everyone who joined one of our first two Friends of Farmland Webinars! Quinn Mulroony, our Conservation Manager, kicked off each event with an engaging session focused on farmland easements and how they can benefit your farm and your legacy. These virtual gatherings are designed to connect with farmers, landowners, and community members who want to better understand how farmland conservation works, why it's important, and if it is the right fit for your family.
Whether you're considering an easement, want to support farmland preservation, or simply care about keeping California growing, we invite you to join our last scheduled virtual Friends of Farmland session this year on August 13th!
Register at cafarmtrust.org
COMMUNITY connections
Harvest Brentwood
Community Connections links our network to organizations doing good work for the preservation of our state's agricultural industry. To submit your event or organization for a feature, email Matthew Grizzle mgrizzle@cafarmtrust.org Operations Director.
Harvest Brentwood offers an invaluable interactive map of farms with U-Pick and farm stands. Check out the map and take full advantage of fresh, bountiful produce in Contra Costa County.
View the map at harvestforyou.com/interactive-map
Rally 2025: The National Land Conservation Conference
September 3-6, 2025 | Cleveland, OH
The National Land Conservation Conference - Where people who share a passion for conservation will re-energize and inspire you. Gather to learn about diverse conservation topics, connect with friends and colleagues, and gain the skills you need to take your conservation work further.
Learn more and register today at alliancerally.org
Whole Vine Festival
November 1, 2025 | Fresno State University
Get ready for a fun-filled weekend of food, drinks, entertainment, and shopping, and indulge your senses with the rich flavors of table grapes, raisins, and wine. The Whole Vine Festival is a one-day event that celebrates the culture and flavor of the San Joaquin Valley’s grape, raisin, and wine industry. Come see us at the CFT booth!
Learn more and register today at thewholevine.com
California Foundation for Ag in the Classroom Annual Conference
September 26-28, 2025 | Sacramento, CA
The conference is designed for Pre K-12 grade educators, administrators, and volunteers to come together to learn and share how to incorporate food and fiber into all curricular areas. From hands-on learning and workshops to engaging guest speakers and field trips, this event is an incredible way to learn how to bring agriculture education into the classroom.
Learn more and register today at learnaboutag.org/programs/conference
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