PRESS :: Releases

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Click here to download a printable version (pdf).

Contact: Susan Crespi, Growers' Collaborative Regional Manager, Southern California

(805) 933-1024, susan@growerscollaborative.org

Southern California Growers hit by Wildfire Damage

VENTURA (November 1, 2007)

Over the past two weeks, fires have ravaged nearly half a million acres in Southern California, destroying thousands of structures and forcing the evacuation of 500,000 residents. The effect on the region’s agriculture has yet to be quantified, but preliminary accounts from Growers Collaborative producers indicate that many of our farmer partners sustained some damage to their crops.

According to Pablo Gonzalez of Sespe Finest Herbs, their entire crop of zucchini was lost, and over at ABC Farms, wind ripped nearly all the Valencia oranges off the trees; workers are currently dredging the groves to determine whether any are salvageable.  Tamai Family Farms in Oxnard suffered wind damage the destroyed most of their beans, including Romano, yellow wax and Blue Lakes.

Fortunately, Sespe Finest Herbs is still able to offer a wide selection of specialty herbs, including rosemary, basil, sage, and cilantro; and Tamai Family Farms’ delectable string beans have emerged unscathed.  As always, Growers' Collaborative produce is carefully screened and hand-packed to ensure its integrity.

“It’s amazing and heartwarming to see these farmers being so committed to their land and crops regardless of the hardships they face,” said Regional Manager Susan Crespi.  “It’s a thrill to work with such tremendously dedicated people.”

Growers' Collaborative thanks our clients for their continued patience and support during this difficult time.

For more information, contact Regional Manager Susan Crespi at (805) 933-1024.

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