Farmers & Ranchers: Environment & Climate

The way California produces food today is outpacing our ability to steward the resources we will need for the future. These farmers are working to ensure that farming and ranching becomes restorative to our resources, wild including plants and animals. 

Alfred G. Montna- Owner Montna Farms

Alfred G. Montna- Owner Montna Farms

As the owner of Montna Farms, Al continues to set the standard in responsible and sustainable farming practices.  He employs environmentally safe alternatives to burning rice stubble and works to significantly reduce harmful pesticide runoff into the nearby Sacramento River.  Last year, Al installed nearly 2,000 solar panels that dramatically cut down on energy costs and are expected to offset over 800,000 pounds of carbon annually.

Correct Answer: D

Bill Burrows- Owner of Burrows Ranch

Bill Burrows- Owner of Burrows Ranch

As the head of Burrows Ranch, Bill utilizes a wide range of holisitic management methods in maintaining his family's ranch.  Bill and his wife Kay are deeply committed to improving the biodiversity of their land which in turn ensures productive soil, plants and animals.  The Burrows host agri-tourism, maintain a successful carbon sequestration program, oversee a wetlands project aimed at the protection of migratory birds and run cattle, sheep and goats for brush control.

Correct Answer: E

ROC Activities:

Craig McNamara - Owner Sierra Farms, Founder Center for Land Based Learning

Craig McNamara - Owner Sierra Farms, Founder Center for Land Based Learning

As the owner of Sierra Farms and founder of the Center for Land Based Learning Craig has dedicated his life to environmental stewardship. He practices science-based organic farming and serves as a role model for the more than 5,000 people who visit his farm each year to learn from his practices. Craig’s vital role in the sustainable agriculture movement was recognized in 2007 when he was presented with the Leopold Conservation Award.

Correct Answer: B

ROC Activities:

George Work - Owner Work Ranch

George Work - Owner Work Ranch

George is one of the state’s pioneers for holistic farm management. He has been an advocate and educator on practices such as no-till farming, wildlife and grazing management, and sustainable food systems. In 2004 Work Ranch was given with The National Environmental Stewardship Award, which was presented by Dow Agro Science and the National Cattlemen's Beef Association. For many years George and his family have been an example of doing good while doing well.

Correct Answer: A

ROC Stewardship Council

John Diener - Owner Red Rock Ranch

John Diener - Owner Red Rock Ranch

John has been working for years finding ways to diminish the environmental impact of his 5,000-acre ranching operation in Fresno County. His innovations in conservation tillage and water-efficient irrigation systems were recognized with the Aldo Leopold Conservation award in 2009.

Correct Answer: C