Phil and Katherine Foster own 250 acres of organic land on two ranches near San Juan Bautista and Hollister, California.  Phil, has been farming organically for over 30 years. On the 50 acres in San Juan Bautisa, cool season crops are grown while the 200 acres in Hollister are used for hot season crops. At the peak of the season, they market up to 60 diverse organic fruits and vegetables under the Pinnacle label. Their produce is sold directly to retail stores, at farmers’ markets and also through the wholesale channel. VV is proud to partner with this farm for more than two decades!

At the ranches, the focus isn’t just on organic production but also on sustainability. They practice a variety of regenerative techniques including compost, cover cropping, crop rotation, low till machinery, and the planting of companion plants and hedgerows to encourage beneficial insects and pollinators. Compost is so important to Phil’s philosophy of farming that he has dedicated 4-acres of his Santa Ana ranch just for producing it.  They are constantly seeking to improve farming methods through observation, soil testing, growing trials and keeping up with the latest research.

Fun Fact: The farm produces 1600 tons of compost a year!

53 kilowatts of solar panels offset their energy use (with more coming!) and most of their tractors and trucks are fueled with Biodiesel.  They strive to maintain the Pinnacle label’s high quality by treating the land, the produce and workers with respect. Their workers receive fair wages and benefits; a majority of their 40-person team is employed year-round.