A Day on the Farm: McGrath Family Farms hosts Farm Day Every Day

Programs

Mar 31

Mike Roberts explaining the history of McGrath Family Farms to visitors

A Warm Welcome

Agriculture is the backbone of our community, and there’s no better way to connect with it than by stepping onto a farm. That’s exactly what over 60 local guests had the chance to experience during a collaboration between SEEAG’s Farm Day Every Day program and McGrath Family Farms. This free tour offered an immersive look into the world of organic farming, providing attendees with a firsthand experience of sustainable farming practices. The tour was made possible by SEEAG (Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture) as part of its Farm Day Every Day program, designed to foster connections between the community and local farms.

Exploring Organic Farming Practices

The day began with an introduction to the history of the McGrath Family in Ventura County, and their commitment to agriculture. We then learned about the farm’s organic practices, including crop rotation, cover crops, and integrated pest management. Guests learned how McGrath Family Farms, Carranza Family Farms, and the Rodale Institute work without the use of chemicals in farming to create a healthier ecosystem. The local farms shared insights into the challenges and benefits of maintaining organic certification, emphasizing the farm’s dedication to sustainable practices.

The highlight of the tour was getting a behind-the-scenes look at a typical day on the farm. Guests witnessed firsthand the hard work and dedication that goes into farming, from planting to harvesting. The hard-working farmers spoke candidly about their routines, offering a unique perspective on the realities of farm life, including early mornings, long hours, and problem-solving on the fly.

Guests also learned about innovative research projects aimed at advancing agricultural practices. Representatives from the Rodale Institute and Carranza Family Farms discussed sustainable farming techniques and the importance of research. The farms shared its ongoing efforts to improve soil health and increase crop yields, showcasing the intersection of science and agriculture.

Thank You to Our Partners

This event was made possible thanks to the generous support of McGrath Family Farms, Carranza Family Farms, Rodale Institute, and Farmivore Food Hub. Their dedication to sustainable farming and agricultural research is truly inspiring, and we are grateful for their involvement in making this tour a success.

The Farm Day Every Day tour at McGrath Family Farms was an eye-opening experience that highlighted the importance of organic farming, the daily life of a farmer, and the role of research in shaping the future of agriculture. A big thank you to McGrath Family Farms, Carranza Family Farms, Rodale Institute, and Farmivore Food Hub for making this event possible. We look forward to more opportunities to learn and grow together in support of local agriculture.