Weekly Ranch Roundup: Harvests, Cleanups & Old Friends
There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of seeing months of hard work culminate in a healthy, vibrant crop.
On November 6, 2024, a wildfire ignited near Balcom Canyon Road in Ventura County, California. Fueled by Santa Ana winds reaching up to 85 miles per hour, the Mountain Fire rapidly expanded, crossing South Mountain and advancing eastward toward Santa Paula. If winds shifted, it could have spread east toward Fillmore and Rancho Dos Hermanas.
The fire’s swift progression led to the evacuation of over 10,000 residents and the destruction of 132 structures, predominantly homes. Additionally, the agricultural sector suffered significant losses, with approximately 12,000 acres of farmland, including avocado, citrus, and berry crops, damaged or destroyed.
Amidst the devastation, the community’s response showcased remarkable solidarity. Individuals offered horse trailers to assist in evacuating animals, and numerous fundraising efforts emerged to support those who lost their homes and livelihoods.
This disaster occurred just a day after the national elections, a period already marked by heightened emotions and uncertainty. The collective efforts to aid those affected by the fire serve as a poignant reminder of the strength and resilience that communities can exhibit in times of crisis.
We are grateful to our first responders and all those who came together to help during a time of need.
There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of seeing months of hard work culminate in a healthy, vibrant crop.
Last week marked a significant step forward for Rancho Dos Hermanas—we officially hosted the Interagency Review Team (IRT) for a
Some days on the farm reaffirm why we chose this path—why we made the decision to purchase our family ranch
Last Saturday, we rolled up our sleeves for a productive cleanup day at Rancho Dos Hermanas. John, Charlie, and I