Josie’s Organics is the organic arm of Braga Fresh, a 3rd-generation family-farm dating back to 1928. Currently run by Rod Braga, they still grow on the home ranch in California, but also from 19 other growing regions to ensure year-round supply. The Josie label is named after the woman who started the farm “Nonnie Josie,” Rod’s grandmother.

Josie’s Organics label and brand launched in 2013, but the farm had started transitioning toward organic practices over 30 years ago. Of the 20,000 acres that the farm manages, roughly 70% of it is dedicated to organic farmland.

According to Rod Braga, sustainability means taking care of the water, the soil, and the people who work it. This focus on eco-system sustainability is why they till cover crops into the earth to add nutrients back into the soil and use GPS-equipped tractors for the best accuracy and productivity. These tractors have fuel-efficient engines that save millions of gallons of fuel each year.

Braga Fresh also has an incredible bee program; 10% of the farm is dedicated to improving and expanding pollinator and beneficial insect habitats. They even have an in-house beekeeper and use bees as part of the organic farming process. Check out their resources about bees in agriculture.