Timeline

History of California Farmland Trust

2004

First easement completed by CVFT, known as Humboldt Ranch

Merged from the Merced County Farmlands and Open Space Trust, Stanislas Farmland Trust, San Joaquin County Working Group, and the Sacramento Valley Agricultural Land Conservancy.

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2005

First easement completed by CVFT, known as Humboldt Ranch

This protected 270 acre parcel at the northern edge of Merced County has established a permanent separation between the City of Turlock to the north and the community of Delhi to the south. What was once a jungle of Bermuda grass-covered stump grapes is now a cornucopia of cling peaches, almonds and walnuts.

2006

CVFT and its associated land trusts hold 12 easements comprising over 10,000 acres of farmland.

At the time CVFT is working on 6 additional projects totaling 875 acres and managing over $500,000 in funds targeted for farmland mitigation.

2008

First Land Trust Accreditation awarded to CVFT

The accreditation serves as a testament to the hard work and dedication of the Trust’s staff, board, and supporters, solidifying its role as a leader in the movement to safeguard agricultural lands across the state.

Accredited land trusts meet national quality standards for protecting important natural places and working lands
forever. The accreditation seal lets the public know that the accredited land trust has undergone an extensive, external review.

2009

First “Friends of Farmland” event is held

The “Friends of Farmland” program is designed to engage community members and supporters in the mission of preserving California’s agricultural land. This initiative often focuses on raising awareness about the importance of farmland conservation, providing educational resources, and fostering connections among individuals who share a passion for protecting farmland.

2011

20th easement completed by CVFT

2012

Evening at the Carnegie

On Saturday, October 20th, 120 friends and supporters of CVFT came together at the Carnegie Arts Center in Modesto, to enjoy
dinner, camaraderie in agriculture, and the stunning artwork of Edgar Degas to benefit the land trust.

2014

CVFT celebrates 10th Anniversary as a land trust

2015

CVFT has 13,528 acres protected.

2016

Educational partnership with Raley’s is established and Trustee Council is started

2017

Official merger of Brentwood Agricultural Land Trust and CVFT, organization name is changed to California Farmland Trust

2019

Closed nine easements,
finishing the year with 75 total
easements held by CFT

2020

“Concrete California” short film is produced

2021

Hosted the inaugural Race To Slow the Pace 5k at Bokisch Vineyards

Presented in partnership with the John and Jeani Ferrari Family Foundation, RTSTP is a trail run held at Bokisch Vineyards to connect people with nature, the environment and family farms that feed them, while furthering our mission.

2021

Orange You Glad We Have Farmland curriculum becomes available in Spanish

2023

CFT celebrates Ag Day at the Capitol

CFT greeted legislative members, legislative staff, agency representatives and the public with popcorn and a showing of Concrete California.

2024

Today, CFT has protected 18,259 acres on 85 farms in seven counties. Together, we can do more.

2024

CFT celebrates 20th Anniversary as a land trust

Farmland Protected

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