COWS AND FLOWERS

The ink was barely dry on the new deed for Harvey Ranch when JMLT Stewardship Director James went on site to develop a new grazing management plan to support the native ecosystem and reduce wildfire risk. The Moraga Hills have hosted cattle ranches for two centuries, but only recently has serious science been applied to establish a regenerative sequence as to where cows should go and for how long. The goal is to protect native grassland, aquatic ecosystems, and fragile populations of rare plants. James hosted 3 biologists from Vollmar Natural Lands Consulting to survey the property. They discovered a few unique populations of Diablo Helianthella (Mt. Diablo Sunflower) and small populations of Mt. Diablo Fairy Lantern (Calochortus pulchellusthese). Their new plan will protect these delicate flowers from accidental hoof damage and ensure you’ll be able to see them in season.

Fun Fact: MORE COWS AND FLOWERS

Alongside busy Highway 4 near Hercules is a 30-acre preserve where JMLT cares for one of the last-known stands of Contra Costa goldfields (Lasthenia conjugens) located within its namesake county. These shocking-yellow flowers create sheaths of vibrant color that astound onlookers. When we took over the property two decades ago, the number of plants had plummeted to nearly zero. To prosper, the flower needs little pools of water that form in the winter but dry out in the spring. The churn and divots from cattle hooves create perfect little pools. We used cattle grazing to beat back the deadly grasses and give the goldfields a chance to recover—and it worked! They’re thriving now.

Protecting the places that make the East Bay special

We’re having fun down on the Farm and you simply must join us. Here’s a recap of recent events. Find out what’s happening next: jmlt.org/calendar

Rain? What Rain?

It was a soggy day at our annual Winter Festival in December, but the mood was bright and sunny under the large roof of our pole barn. Happy attendees made wreaths, got faces painted, and sipped hot cider and cocoa. It was a holiday gift indeed to see so many people appreciate a place that means so much to us.

More Green Thumbs

The UC Master Gardener Program of Contra Costa County is creating a demonstration garden on site. It will educate budding gardeners and help grow food for the community! Come see it and get your hands dirty at an upcoming FHF Volunteer Day.

Plants Get a New Home

Our Spring Plant Sale was a huge success. Dozens of folks found plants to spruce up home gardens and dinner plates. Especially popular were tomatoes, peppers, melons, and spring favorite: organically grown flowering plants.

Hate Weeds?

So do these folks who participated in our special Volunteer Day to reduce fire risk through weed abatement. There was a fair bit of sneezing, but now the Farm looks great!

Apprentice Update

After 11 months of employment as a FHF Apprentice, Dee has graduated and accepted an administrative position with the City of Antioch Mayor’s Apprenticeship Program. We’re so excited for her!

About The Farm

On a former vacant lot in a city neighborhood, this 3.5-acre thriving organic farm in Pittsburg, California employs young adults with experience in foster care. Family Harvest Farm (FHF) encourages healthy living, nurtures the environment, and feeds the local community.

Learn more: jmlt.org/farm