2024 Desert Difference AgTech Conference

September 30th, 2024

The 2024 Desert Difference AgTech Conference in Yuma, Arizona, on November 13-14, is a must-attend event this fall. Kicking off with an in-field demonstration, attendees will have the opportunity to connect with growers, industry leaders, startups and researchers while exploring advancements in automation, sustainability and innovations in desert agriculture.

Key speakers from Western Growers include Ben Palone, Sr. Director of Automation and Commercialization; Walt Duflock, VP of Innovation; and Dennis Donohue, Director of the Western Growers Center of Innovation and Technology.

Please click here for more information and to register.

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Reps. Panetta, Valadao Introduce Supplemental Appropriations Bill to Assist Ag Producers Impacted by Natural Disasters

September 30th, 2024

WASHINGTON – Today, Reps. Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) and David G. Valadao (CA-22) introduced the Agriculture Disaster Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act. The bill provides an additional $14 billion to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to assist agriculture producers impacted by losses caused by natural disasters in 2023.

“Our farmers and ranchers have been getting hammered with severe weather, significant flooding, smoke damage, and steep prices, which have all led to serious setbacks this season,” said Rep. Panetta. “The bipartisan Agriculture Disaster Supplemental Appropriations Act would allow the federal government to provide reasonable assistance as necessary for those in our agricultural industry to recover and continue moving forward. This bill is the least that Congress can do to ensure that the federal government plays its part to help those who help put food on our tables.”

“Natural disasters like drought and flooding have caused devastating losses for Central Valley producers over the last two years,” said Rep. Valadao. “These extreme weather events negatively affect the security of our nation’s food supply, prices for consumers, and jobs throughout our community. My legislation provides USDA with the funding necessary to assist farmers in California and across the country who have been impacted by natural disasters. Producers in the Central Valley have had a difficult and uncertain couple of years, and I’ll continue working to ensure they have the resources and support they need to grow the food that feeds the world.”

Reps. Panetta and Valadao were joined in introduction by Reps. John Duarte (R-CA), Jim Costa, (D-CA), Vince Fong (R-CA), Jake LaTurner (R-KS), Dan Newhouse (R-WA), Salud Carbajal (D-CA), Darren Soto (D-FL), Doug LaMalfa (R-CA), Marc Molinaro (R-NY), Mike Thompson (CA-04), and Josh Harder (D-CA).

The legislation is supported by American Farm Bureau, California Farm Bureau, Western Growers Association, National Milk Producers Federation, Milk Producers Council, California Dairies, Inc., Napa Valley Vinters, California Tomato Growers Association, Almond Alliance, and the Grower-Shipper Association of Central California.

“Californians have faced a unique and broad range of disasters across the state in recent years—including floods, drought and wildfires. Unfortunately, only a quarter of the roughly 400 commodities grown in California are covered by a direct crop insurance program, meaning thousands of farmers are unable to access critical risk management tools to recover from disasters. This has led to our reliance on resources such as the Emergency Relief Program, which is currently oversubscribed and underfunded. We are appreciative of the attention and leadership Rep. Valadao, Rep. Panetta and others have shown in addressing this shortfall by introducing this supplemental appropriations bill,” said California Farm Bureau President Shannon Douglass.

“California dairy farm families suffered last year from major storms and flooding that displaced families and their cows while also damaging feed supplies farmers had worked hard to store. We are grateful to Rep. Valadao for consistently championing the needs of California’s dairy farmers. His bipartisan agricultural disaster supplemental funding package, cosponsored by Reps. Panetta, Fong, and Costa, will ensure that Central Valley dairy families finally recover what they lost well over a year ago,” said Gregg Doud, president and CEO, National Milk Producers Federation

“It has been nearly two years since California growers suffered major losses due to flooding and related natural disasters, which affected many rural communities,” said Dave Puglia, President and CEO of Western Growers. “This bipartisan bill ensures sufficient funding and a strong delivery program to finally address all those impacted in 2023. Western Growers supports the Agriculture Disaster Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act and we urge Congress to pass this bill to deliver relief to our farmers and their communities as soon as possible.”

“On behalf of California’s almond industry, the Almond Alliance strongly supports the bipartisan Agriculture Disaster Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act introduced by Congressman David G. Valadao and Congressman Jimmy Panetta. Farmers across the nation, including our almond growers, faced significant losses in 2023 due to floods, droughts, wildfires, and other natural disasters that threaten the agricultural sector and the economic stability of rural communities, and our nation’s food security. This bill provides $14 billion in disaster relief, ensuring farmers can recover and continue feeding domestic and global markets. We urge swift passage of this legislation to protect American agriculture and the communities that depend on it,” said Blake Vann, Chairman, Almond Alliance.

“The board of Directors at Milk Producers Council appreciates the bipartisan support of well needed assistance due to substantial losses encountered due to climate variability,” said Kevin Abernathy, General Manager, Milk Producers Council.

Background:

In 2023, farmers and producers across the United States experienced significant agricultural losses due to natural disasters including floods, hurricanes, droughts, tornadoes, wildfires, and weather-related pest damages. These disasters have severely affected crop and livestock production and continue to jeopardize our nation’s food security and the economic stability of our rural communities.

The Agriculture Disaster Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act:

Appropriates $14 billion to the Office of the Secretary for Agriculture for necessary expenses related to 2023 disasters.

Includes a $1.5 billion carveout for livestock losses and provides expanded assistance to livestock producers, including relocation of livestock, feed crop losses, and shelter-in-place procedures.

Covers quality loss from smoke-tainted wine grapes due to wildfire.

Includes additional provisions modeled after the 2021 Emergency Relief Program and the Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2022 covering the definition of drought, direct payments to producers, payment limitations, crop insurance requirements, etc.

Includes a new provision to ensure payments are administered simultaneously for all producers, regardless of type of qualified loss.

Read the full text of the bill here.

Read a one page summary of the bill here.

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Mixed Results in Cases Challenging H-2A Wage Rule 

September 26th, 2024

Last week, a federal judge in Louisiana recently issued a partial injunction on the 2023 Adverse Effect Wage Rate Final Rule for sugar cane growers in that state, citing a US Supreme Court decision that overturned judicial deference to agencies’ interpretation of ambiguous statutes.  

In the case Teche Vermilion Sugar Cane Growers Association Inc., et al. v. Julie Su, et al. (Vermilion), the Court granted a preliminary injunction for Louisiana farmers using H-2A agricultural workers for tasks such as hauling sugarcane with heavy or tractor-trailer trucks. Vermilion challenged the Department’s Final Rule, which reclassified certain workers and arbitrarily increased wages that employers must pay their H-2A workers and any workers in corresponding duties.  

In another challenge to the Final Rule, a federal appeals court panel in Richmond, Va., expressed doubt about USA Farm Labor’s claims that wage increases mandated for foreign farmworkers on seasonal visas should be blocked due to their potential effect on illegal hiring. The group also contends the government failed to adequately account for the costs employers would bear from new wage increases. 

Industry groups have repeatedly sued over the new rules, including three separate suits challenging the AEWR standards, so far with mixed results. Another challenge in a Florida federal court failed to win an injunction. 

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California Employer Election Day Notice and Leave Requirements

September 26th, 2024

California Elections Code section 14001 mandates that all employers inform employees about their rights to take paid leave for voting in statewide elections. Here are the key points: 

  • Notice Posting: Employers must post an Election Day notice 10 days before a statewide election. This Election Day notice must be posted by Saturday, October 26, 2024. The Notice should be visible in the workplace or where employees enter or exit. Employers with remote workers should consider: 
    • Posting the Notice internally in a prominent and easily accessible online space (e.g., the company’s intranet); and 
    • Sending an internal communication letting all employees know where/how the Notice can be viewed/accessed; or 
    • Emailing a copy of the notice to all remote employees.  
  • Eligibility for Paid Time Off: All employees are eligible for paid time off to vote if they do not have sufficient time outside working hours. Employees can take as much time as needed to vote, but only a maximum of two hours is paid. Employers may require advance notice and can specify that the time off be taken at the beginning or end of the shift. 

Free notices can be downloaded from the California Secretary of State’s website.  

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Best Practices: Effectively Managing Remote and Hybrid Employees

September 26th, 2024

In today’s evolving work environment, managing remote and hybrid employees has become a critical skill for employers. The shift towards flexible work arrangements offers numerous benefits, but it also presents unique challenges that require thoughtful strategies to ensure productivity and employee satisfaction.  

Below are a few key goals for effectively managing your remote and hybrid employees: 

  • Clear Expectations and Goals: One of the most important aspects of managing remote and hybrid employees is setting clear expectations and goals. Employers should communicate what is expected of their employees, including specific objectives and deadlines. This clarity helps employees understand their responsibilities and stay focused on their tasks. However, it is equally important to allow flexibility and autonomy in how and when the work is accomplished. As indicated below, focusing on productivity as opposed to time on task offers a more accurate means of determine the effectiveness of remote and hybrid arrangements. 
  • Effective Communication: Communication is the backbone of successful remote and hybrid work arrangements. Employers should establish regular check-ins and meetings to keep employees informed and engaged. Utilizing various communication tools such as video conferencing, instant messaging, and collaborative platforms can help bridge the gap created by physical distance. Additionally, fostering an open-door policy where employees feel comfortable reaching out with questions or concerns can enhance trust and collaboration within the team. 
  • Focus on Outcomes: Rather than focusing on the hours worked or physical presence, employers should emphasize outcomes and results. Evaluating employees based on their performance and the quality of their work ensures that productivity is measured accurately. This approach also helps in recognizing and rewarding employees who excel in their roles, regardless of their location. By shifting the focus to outcomes, employers can create a more equitable and motivating work environment. 
  • Support and Resources: Providing the necessary support and resources is crucial for remote and hybrid employees to succeed. Employers should ensure that employees have access to the tools and technology they need to perform their tasks efficiently. This includes reliable internet connections, appropriate software, and ergonomic workstations. Offering training and development opportunities can also help employees stay updated with the latest skills and best practices, further enhancing their productivity and job satisfaction. 
  • Fostering a Positive Work Culture: Maintaining a positive work culture is essential for remote and hybrid teams. Employers should encourage team-building activities and virtual social events to strengthen relationships and foster a sense of belonging. Recognizing and celebrating achievements, both big and small, can boost morale and motivation. Additionally, promoting a culture of inclusivity and respect ensures that all employees feel valued and supported, regardless of their work arrangement. 

Effectively managing remote and hybrid employees requires a combination of clear communication, flexibility, and a focus on outcomes. By setting clear expectations, providing the necessary support, and fostering a positive work culture, employers can create an environment where remote and hybrid employees thrive. As the workplace continues to evolve, these strategies will be essential for maintaining productivity and employee satisfaction in the long term. 

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School-Related Leave Reminders for California Employers

September 26th, 2024

As we head into a new academic year, California employers are reminded that caregivers and employees with children are entitled to time off to care for sick children and attend school-related activities. 

School Activity Leave 

Under California Labor Code Section 230.8, employers with 25 or more employees at a single location must provide parents, guardians, or grandparents with custody of a child in grades kindergarten through 12, or those attending a licensed daycare facility, with up to 40 hours of unpaid leave per year. 

This allows employees to participate in school activities, such as field trips, school meetings, and childcare provider conferences. This leave benefit is capped at eight hours per month. Employers may require reasonable advance notice of the need for leave and require employees use accrued or other paid time off before taking unpaid leave. 

Suspension or Expulsion Meetings 

California Labor Code Section 230.7 prohibits employers from discharging or discriminating against parents or guardians who take time off to attend suspension or expulsion meetings. 

Paid Sick Leave 

State law and local ordinances across California require employers to provide employees with paid sick leave. This benefit allows employees time off for the diagnosis, care, or treatment of an existing health condition, and for preventive care, for both the employee and their family.  

Understanding and applying these leave entitlements as required will help employers meet their legal obligations and lower risks associated with non-compliance.  

 

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2024 Western Growers Annual Meeting Featured Session: Sustainable Packaging

September 25th, 2024

Join us for the first featured session at this year’s Western Growers Annual Meeting, where industry leaders will explore the future of sustainable packaging in agriculture. Our expert panel will dive into the latest advancements in sustainable packaging, including plastic reduction, recyclability, end-of-life solutions and lightweighting. With a focus on consumer demand and market data, the session will highlight why transitioning to sustainable packaging goes beyond regulatory compliance.

Panelists include Ron LeMaire, President, Canadian Produce Marketing Association; Jenét DeCosta, Sr. Director of Public Affairs, Driscoll’s; Dave Podesta, Director of Quality Assurance, Sysco; and Kevin Kelly, CEO, Emerald Packaging.

To learn more about the 2024 Western Growers Annual Meeting, click here.

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Fresh Produce Safety Discussions: De Ann Davis Presents at the National Academies of Science  

September 24th, 2024

On September 4-5, 2024 the Food Forum at the National Academies of Sciences (NAS) hosted a workshop titled “Safeguarding the Food Supply: Integrating Diverse Risks, Connecting with Consumers, and Protecting Vulnerable Populations.” This event explored hazard and risk-based approaches to food safety, covering nutrition, economics and equity implications. 

De Ann Davis, PhD, SVP of Science at Western Growers, presented on fresh produce safety, discussing “Why Changing Our Focus Will Strengthen Food Safety: Hazard Versus Risk Management.” 

Her presentation is video 12 out of 20 on Day 1 of the workshop. You can view all workshop recordings and materials from the presentations here: Workshop Recordings. 

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FDA Updates Small Entity Compliance Guide for Produce Safety Regulation

September 24th, 2024

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has published an updated compliance guide for small food entities regarding the preharvest agricultural water requirements of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule: “Standards for the Growing, Harvesting, Packing, and Holding of Produce for Human Consumption: What You Need to Know About the FDA Regulation: Small Entity Compliance Guide” (SECG).

This update is designed to help small entities comply with the revised pre-harvest agricultural water requirements for covered produce (excluding sprouts) under the Produce Safety Rule.

Updates made to the guidance reflect changes made to the Produce Safety Rule in the May 2024 final rule, “Standards for the Growing, Harvesting, Packing, and Holding of Produce for Human Consumption Relating to Agricultural Water.”

Compliance dates for the pre-harvest agricultural water requirements for covered produce (excluding sprouts) start April 7, 2025, with staggered deadlines based on farm size.

Western Growers has put together a list of additional resources pertaining to the FSMA Final Rule of Pre-Harvest Agricultural Water. Click here.

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Register Today for California Small Truck Fleet Virtual Focus Group

September 24th, 2024

The California Small Truck Fleet Focus Group is looking for truck fleet owners and operators to share their expertise on topics that include operations, costs and industry news. The virtual focus group welcomes owners and operators of all sizes, whether you manage a small fleet of 20 or fewer trucks or are a current or former owner-operator.

Topics of discussion will include:

  • Trucking Industry News: Where do you get your news?
  • Zero-Emission Trucks: What have you heard about them?
  • Operations: How many miles do your trucks travel daily?
  • Savings: Do you know your fuel costs?

Event Details:

Date: October 10, 2024

Session Times: 8:30 a.m., 12:00 p.m., 5:00 p.m.

Note: Each participant will receive $200 for their time and expertise.

To register for the focus group, click here.

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Become a Mentor with the WG Women Program

September 24th, 2024

Western Growers Women, a program that prepares women for positions of leadership within WG member companies and the broader fresh produce industry, is seeking experienced mentors to inspire and guide the next generation of leaders in ag.

This is a perfect opportunity for professionals who want to give back and make a positive impact on someone’s career, all while expanding their network and strengthening their skills in communication and leadership.

If you’re interested in becoming a mentor, contact Cierra Allen at [email protected]. For more information, you can download our flyer here.

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See Autonomous Farming Solutions in Action at FIRA USA 2024

September 17th, 2024

Growers, innovators, scientists and investors are set to come together next month at the third annual FIRA USA, a three-day gathering of autonomous farming and agricultural robotics solutions. Scheduled for Oct. 22-24, 2024, in Woodland, Calif., FIRA USA highlights new and emerging technology in the global ag robotics sector.

The event will showcase more than 35 robots demonstrating advancements in ag automation solutions in three demonstrations zones. From weed control to fertilizer, harvesting, picking and seeding, you’ll have a front-row seat to the full gamut of tech innovations.

In addition to more than 70 booths in the event’s exhibition hall, FIRA USA will feature an array of panel discussions, round tables and pitches from some of the brightest minds in agriculture.

FIRA’s exciting agenda and panel discussions include:

  • Building an Agricultural Technology Innovation Economy
  • California AgTech Open Innovation Ecosystem
  • Autonomous Irrigation Solutions for Specialty Crops
  • Advancements in Robotics for Farm and Food Production: A 2024 Review
  • Addressing Automation Needs in the Vegetable Industry Through the World
  • Robots Case Studies: Figures and ROI Analysis
  • Empowering the Future of Agriculture: The Workforce and Education Program in Ag

For a full agenda, click here.

This year for the first time, verified growers will be able to attend FIRA USA for free.

Ag and FFA students can also register for free by clicking here: https://fira-usa.com/school-education/.

This is an event you won’t want to miss. For more information and to register for the event, click here.

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Register Today: Western Growers Leave Law Webinar on Sept. 24

September 18th, 2024

Registration is now open for the Western Growers webinar on leave law requirements and disability accommodations in the workplace, brought to you by Western Growers Legal Resources and Western Growers University.

This is a unique opportunity to build and refine human resource management skills around employee leave laws and the employer’s duty to provide a discrimination-free workplace.

Participants will learn how to navigate through the most common federal and state leaves (e.g., FMLA, CFRA, PDL), learn about employer obligations under Workers’ Compensation laws, and then take a deep dive into disability discrimination and the employer’s duties under state and federal law to provide a discrimination-free workplace.

Presenters include Priscila Cisneros, Learning and Development Manager, Western Growers University; Ken Cooper, Director, Risk Strategy, P&C Loss Control, Western Growers Insurance Services; and Teresa McQueen, Esq. Corporate Counsel, Western Growers.

Details:

Tuesday, September 24, 2024
10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. (breaks provided)

For a full agenda and to register for the event, click here.

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Lawsuit Seeks to Block DOL H-2A Rule 

September 19th, 2024

The National Council of Agricultural Employers (NCAE), which counts Western Growers as a member, along with several agricultural groups and individual farmers, has filed a lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky, challenging the Department of Labor’s Final Rule, “Improving Protections for Workers in Temporary Agricultural Employment in the United States.” This rule, according to the lawsuit, unlawfully infringes upon the constitutional rights of farm and ranch employers, imposing burdensome and illogical requirements. Among the issues raised, the rule enables temporary foreign agricultural workers to unionize, a right not extended to domestic farmworkers, while also complicating safety measures for agricultural employees. 

On August 29th, the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Georgia issued a preliminary injunction blocking the rule’s enforcement in specific states, including Georgia, Kansas, and others (the “Kansas decision.”) However, this ruling leaves farmers in most states subject to the rule’s provisions. Despite this injunction, the Department of Labor has moved forward with implementing the rule for employers in states not covered by the court’s decision, while creating a bifurcated application process that further complicates compliance for those in states under the injunction. 

The lawsuit asks the U.S. District Court in Kentucky to issue a nationwide injunction preventing DOL from enforcing the rule in the rest of the country not covered by the Kansas decision and ultimately strike down the rule.  

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Fifth Circuit Upholds DOL Authority to Establish Overtime Thresholds

September 19th, 2024

As discussed here and here, a new federal overtime rule raising the salary threshold for overtime exemptions under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) took effect July 1, 2024, with a second phase increase scheduled for January 1, 2025.   

In the wake of this most recent increase, litigation commenced to challenge the Department of Labor’s (DOL) authority to increase the minimum salary threshold.  However, challenged in the wake of the Supreme Court’s recent opinion in Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo, a case overturning decades of federal agency rulemaking deference, a Fifth Circuit panel, in the case Mayfield v. Department of Labor, upheld the authority of the DOL to establish a minimum salary level for the exemption for overtime eligibility.    

What Does it Mean 

There may be more legal challenges ahead, but for the present, the Mayfield decision confirming the DOL’s rulemaking power over the FLSA indicates that the January 1, 2025 increase will proceed as planned.  

To lower risks associated with changes to employee status, employers will need to carefully review their workforce classification and compensation practices to ensure compliance with the new rule. Proactive planning can help mitigate potential cost increases and compliance risks. 

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Federal Court Ruling Challenges NLRB Authority

September 19th, 2024

A Texas judge has issued a ruling that challenges the National Labor Relations Board’s (NLRB) authority, granting an injunction to an Austin-based tech company accused of unfair labor practices. The judge found in favor of the employer’s claim that the NLRB’s administrative law judge system violates the Constitution’s separation of powers doctrine. 

This decision cites the recent Supreme Court ruling in SEC v. Jarkesy, which weakened the authority of federal regulatory agencies. The employer, Findhelp, contended that the NLRB’s process for hearing cases oversteps its legal bounds, and Judge Mark Pittman, an appointee of former President Trump, agreed. The ruling could lead to a prolonged legal battle between companies and unions, one that may ultimately reach the Supreme Court, where a conservative majority with pro-business leanings could determine the NLRB’s fate. 

Several major corporations including Amazon, Tesla, Starbucks, and Trader Joe’s have also filed legal actions challenging the authority of the agency.  

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Secure Your Spot at This Year’s WG Annual Meeting PAC Luncheon

September 18th, 2024

Join us on Monday, November 4, from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m., for a chance to hear from award-winning journalist and author Bari Weiss.

Bari is the founder and editor of The Free Press and host of the podcast Honestly. Her accolades include the LA Press Club’s 2021 Daniel Pearl Award for Courage and Integrity in Journalism, the Per Ahlmark award in recognition of her moral courage and Reason Foundation’s 2018 Bastiat Prize for outstanding writing on freedom. Vanity Fair named her the Times’s “star opinion writer” in 2019.

A proud Pittsburg native, Bari’s first book, How to Fight Anti-Semitism, won a 2019 National Jewish Book Award.

The Western Growers Political Action Committee (PAC) provides strategic campaign support to elected officials and candidates.  Proceeds from our annual PAC Lunch help amplify our members’ voices in political contests on both state and national levels.

Please note, PAC Luncheon tickets are sold separately from Annual Meeting tickets and are priced at $195 per person.

Purchase your tickets here.

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Highlights from Our Sampling and Testing Integrity Workshop

September 18th, 2024

On September 17th, Western Growers Science hosted a successful Sampling and Testing Integrity Workshop at the Grower-Shipper Association in Salinas, Calif. Led by our dedicated team members Joelle Mosso, Science Program Associate Vice President, and Gustavo Reyes, Food Safety Manager, this event brought together industry professionals to explore the critical aspects of sampling and testing in food safety. 

Workshop Highlights: 

The day began with welcoming remarks, setting the stage for a series of insightful presentations. Gustavo Reyes discussed effective sampling practices, highlighting their crucial role in ensuring accurate test results. Joelle Mosso followed with best practices for maintaining the integrity of sampling and testing processes, along with strategies for establishing reliable sampling verification. 

Esteemed guests presented on the following topics: bacterial physiology, performance test methods, method verification and validation, practical strategies for implementing effective guard rails in operations and innovative technologies for pathogen detection. 

The day concluded with a discussion from the Western Growers Science Team on data utilization through GreenLink®, encouraging attendees to think critically about leveraging data for improved food safety. 

For a complete agenda and list of presenters, please click here. 

Thank you to everyone who participated and contributed to the success of this workshop! 

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Join Us for the Third Data Cultivation Workgroup Meeting on October 9th 

September 17th, 2024

Are you passionate about data science and its potential to transform the produce industry? Whether you’ve attended our previous meetings or are joining us for the first time, we welcome you to our next Data Cultivation Workgroup meeting. 

Details of the Meeting: 

Date: Wednesday, October 9, 2024 

Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM 

Location: Virtual (Register here) 

This meeting is your opportunity to contribute to a dynamic group of industry professionals, academics and data enthusiasts. Our goal is to advance data science and develop innovative projects to tackle the pressing challenges within the produce sector. 

If you missed our earlier sessions, don’t worry! Our workgroup is open to all who are eager to collaborate and drive forward-thinking solutions. Join us as we delve into new discussions, share insights and explore exciting opportunities for collaboration. 

For more information on the Data Cultivation Workgroup, contact Gustavo Reyes at [email protected]. 

Register today  

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The Journey of a Thriving Family Farm

September 12th, 2024

With more than eight billion people on our planet, we’re all a blend of diverse histories, cultures, environments and jobs. Despite the many challenges life may present, one universal need connects us all: the desire for nutritious, wholesome food.

While we all depend on fresh produce, not everyone has the background or means to grow it. For those fortunate enough to do so, they have a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on society.

“It’s the connection to the ground, and the idea that with discipline and hard work you can provide a piece of fruit to the world that you are proud to put your name on,” says Harold McClarty, Owner and CEO of HMC Farms.

Raised in Parlier, Calif., McClarty grew up with his parents and three sisters in a two-bedroom house that his grandfather built by hand. While the family didn’t have much in the way of luxury, they had everything they needed. Like others in their small farming community, the McClarty kids worked hard from a young age. McClarty spent many of his childhood summers picking fruit, pruning and boxing raisins – tasks that may not have been exhilarating for a 14-year-old boy, but instilled in him a deep appreciation for the value of honest, hard work and the pride that comes from it. Determined to not be defined by the 90 cents an hour he earned in the fields, McClarty set his sights on a different future.

A graduate of Selma High School’s class of 1969, McClarty pursued higher education at Reedley College and the University of California, Santa Cruz. At UCSC, he encountered some of the brightest minds he’d ever met and took every opportunity to share the responsibilities he’d grown up with in the Valley. Though he cherished his time away from the farm and the memories he made while at college, he realized he preferred the “real” world he had left behind. McClarty found himself following in the familiar footsteps of generations of farm kids before him, returning to the very farm that shaped him.

The McClarty family’s agriculture legacy began well before Harold’s return. The family’s first 40 acres of farmland were purchased in 1887 by McClarty’s great-grandfather and remain in the family name to this day. After working in nearly every facet of agriculture, from picking fruit to inspecting and selling produce, McClarty knew he wanted more. Reflecting on his upbringing, he said, “I grew up in the ’60s and ’70s, a time when we believed we could make a difference. That belief still drives us today. If you have been given an opportunity, you need to give back and be appreciative of opportunities you were lucky enough to have.”

In 1987, with 40 acres, $5,000 and the support of his wife and two young children, McClarty founded his marketing company. He transformed those 40 acres from a modest family farm into the multi-faceted operation known as HMC Farms today.

For the McClarty’s, farming is more than just a business – it’s a way of life. Harold reflects on the nature of their business, noting, “The only reason we still exist is because we’re a family business. Working with family on a daily basis has its challenges, but the rewards are so much greater.”

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