PORTERVILLE, CA - If you’re looking for examples of a well-executed sustainability blueprint, look to Homegrown Organic Farms. While bringing a robust portfolio of stonefruit, citrus, blueberries, grapes, and more to the market, the supplier never compromises on its commitment to sustainability and supporting its people—and you know we had to find out just how.
“Since the pandemic, many in our industry faced struggles, and we were not immune to the changes in economy, weather, and rising inflation. However, through these trying years, we have stayed true to our mission and continued to raise the bar for sustainable practices,” shares Scott Mabs, Chief Executive Officer. “We’ve been recognized for our efforts to earn Equitable Food Initiative (EFI) certifications in all commodities, become Bee Better Certified® at our Oregon blueberry farms, and receive Regenerative Organic Certification for our stonefruit programs.”
Homegrown Organic Farms has hit several key milestones in recent years:
- In 2020, its Oregon blueberry farms became Bee Better Certified and created safe environments where bees and other pollinator insects can thrive. The company also welcomed its first EFI certification for its stonefruit program that year
- In 2021, Homegrown transitioned ownership to its employees, which has further created a culture of caring
- In 2022, the supplier earned EFI certification for the citrus category. In the same year, it also earned EFI certification across its entire blueberry program and all internally managed farms, expanding its EFI-certified offerings to all commodities that Homegrown Organic Farms produces
“In just a few months, we are set to debut our fully Regenerative Organic Certified stonefruit program,” adds Elise Smith, Marketing Manager. “Our growers have been hard at work building upon the organic principles they have already established to take their farms to the next level with regenerative organic practices.”
Scott also shares more about the supplier’s commitment to sustainability.
“Sustainability is central to everything we do,” he says. “Our founding families started Homegrown Organic Farms with a passion for stewardship of the land and people. Over the last 25 years, this same passion has directed every decision and is incorporated into everything we do from field operations to supply logistics and sales. Caring for the land and people through sustainable agriculture and social responsibility is, in our opinion, the right thing to do, and the benefits are found in the impact we are making. You find employees that are excited to come to work to further our mission and passion. Walk our farms, and you will see the impact through the soil health, the longevity of the fields, and ultimately, a difference you can taste.”
Homegrown Organic Farms is currently celebrating Farmworker Awareness Week alongside EFI, highlighting the crucial role farmworkers play in getting food to our tables. To view the company’s latest blog post, click here. Homegrown Organic will also be sharing social media content throughout the week spotlighting the importance of farmworkers.
Cheers to this distinguished supplier and its never-ending pursuit of sustainability and excellence!
