Orchard News

Recent Irrigation Improvements to the Orchards and Farms

In 2009, my crew and I finished the installation of our last drip irrigation system installation at the Perry orchard and farm. Now all of our fields are under drip irrigation, which for me is a huge milestone, and a 5-year goal put to rest. The estimated amount of water savings is about 700%.  I feel good that this water can be used elsewhere because after all we live in the dessert.  Not only does the sand filtered system make my life less complicated because the water is directly applied to the trees or plants where it needs to go, but also the trees and crops look better than they ever have because I can adjust the water application at any time.

When I first started faming the beautiful slopes in 2007 I asked an old time farmer friend if we ever need to worry about water and he told me no because we own the first water shares out of Pineview Dam. There were a couple of years there however where they limited some of the water and so I am glad I have this in place to sustain the life of our orchards and farms. I have included some pictures of the drip system and will add to this over time. Better yet, if you sign up on our CSA program, you are invited to our open house so we can meet each other when the trees are in full bloom. At that time, I will show you around.

Learn more about our CSA Program

Certified Organic Movement

I will soon be starting the 3-year process to become certified organic on one of my row crop fields.  I’ll be following all procedures and practices to receive this certification for a portion of my crops. A lot of organic material (my neighbor has cows) and black plastic mulch with drip lines will be used.  

I am absolutely committed to the success of this important certification.  I anticipate a bit of a learning curve and welcome any suggestions you may have. 

Please

Thanks Thayne