Join WFA in the field on January 25 to tour native plantings on Juan Santana's almond orchard. In just the last two years, Juan has installed nearly a mile of hedgerows to improve pollination and biodiversity.

Registration is FREE and includes lunch. After registration you will be asked for information about any dietary restrictions. 

Capacity is limited to 50 people. Register early to secure your spot.

AGENDA

9:30 am - 10:00 am Registration with coffee, tea and snacks

10:00 am - 10:15 am Santana Orchard’s Overall Operations

Juan Santana shares how he is diversifying his farm with hedgerows, compost and cover crops.

10:15 am - 10:35 am Hedgerows Support Pest Control

Rachael Long, UC Farm Advisor, discusses how hedgerows provide habitat for natural enemy insects, and Jo Ann Baumgartner shares how this edge habitat can also support birds that offer pest control services.

10:35 am - 11:00 am Pollination and Soil Health

Billy Synk, Pollinator Partnership, shares tips on planting cover crops and habitat that support pollinator and soil health while meeting sustainability goals. 

11:00 am - 11:20 am Cover Crops and Compost Help with Crop Production

Martin Guerena, National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT), covers benefits of diversifying the farm above and below ground with compost and cover crops.

11:20 am - 11:30 am Lessons Learned from Past Plantings

Cindy Lashbrook, Riverdance Farm, discusses how many kinds  of beneficial habitat help her nearby farm with pest control and pollination.

11:30 am - 12:00 pm Design Techniques and Issues of Hedgerows

Sam Earnshaw, Hedgerows Unlimited, describes the process of installing a hedgerow, including the native plants used, and walks the recently planted hedgerows with participants.

12:00 pm Lunch