20th Anniversary Series: A Legacy of Conservation 

Since its inception in 2004, California Farmland Trust (CFT) has been a beacon of hope for preserving the state’s agricultural heritage. Driven by the passion and tenacity of its founders and members, CFT has evolved from a fledgling organization into a formidable force in farmland conservation. At the outset, CFT had protected 8,500 acres across a small number of family farms. Today, thanks to the relentless drive of our team, we have safeguarded an impressive 18,260 acres of prime farmland on 85 farms in six counties throughout the central valley, reflecting a remarkable growth in our capacity to make a difference.

Another pivotal moment in CFT’s history came in 2017, when the board of the Brentwood Agricultural Land Trust (BALT) approached us to discuss a potential merger. BALT was at a crossroads, weighing the possibilities of seeking accreditation and expanding independently or collaborating with like-minded organizations. Recognizing the strength in unity, BALT opted for the latter. In 2018, the California Farmland Trust was formed. This merger not only enhanced CFT’s capacity but also honored the legacy of both organizations. The integration of BALT’s board members, including presidents Jon Harvey and Patrick Johnston, into CFT’s governance underscored our commitment to preserving farmland across new territories and honoring those that had been enfolded into the organization.

As CFT grew, so did its staff. The demand from landowners eager to conserve their farmland called for an expansion of the organization’s capabilities. New positions, including a conservation manager, were established to better serve the community, and CFT relocated to a larger office to accommodate its growing team, which also included an operations director and development manager. This expansion allowed CFT to continue its mission while increasing its portfolio of conservation easements.

Partnerships have been a cornerstone of CFT’s success. Since our collaboration with Raley’s began nearly two decades ago, the relationship has flourished. Together, we’ve developed initiatives like the Orange You Glad You Have Farmland curriculum, emphasizing the importance of agricultural education and awareness among the public.

In September 2021, CFT launched the inaugural Race to Slow the Pace, a vibrant 5k/10k trail run event aimed at connecting people with the land. This initiative, developed in partnership with Markus and Liz Bokisch, also founding members of CFT, encapsulated our vision of fostering a deeper relationship between communities and the agricultural landscapes that sustain them.

On November 2nd, we came together to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the California Farmland Trust with family, friends, and farmland supporters who have been instrumental in our journey. This gathering was not just a celebration; it was also honoring the founding organizations and a heartfelt tribute to our past. As we reminisced about our achievements and milestones, we were reminded of the collective vision that brought us to this moment.

Looking ahead, we remain steadfast in our commitment to helping farmers achieve their conservation goals. At the core of our mission is the principle of “protect, preserve, promote.” We recognize the urgent need to safeguard California’s agricultural heritage, as each year, we lose approximately 40,000 acres of farmland—a trend that shows no sign of slowing down. This reality underscores our mission and the importance of our work.

As we move forward, we are determined to expand our efforts to support farmers and landowners, ensuring that their voices are heard and their lands are protected. The demand for farmland conservation is greater than ever, and we are poised to meet that challenge with renewed energy and dedication.

This article marks the conclusion of our series celebrating 20 years of impact and growth. With the strong foundation built over the past two decades, we look forward to a future filled with possibilities, where we can continue to advocate for and empower the farmers who are the backbone of our agricultural landscape. Together, we will protect, preserve, and promote the rich agricultural legacy of California for generations to come