Every great story begins with someone's passion to create something beautiful. Today, I find myself at the McGrath Family Farm in Ventura County, California, where a passion for fresh ingredients has become a mission that spans five generations. This farm is nestled in what is arguably one of the richest farmlands in the world, with a history that stretches back to 1871, when Irish immigrants first settled in this Mediterranean climate.
As I explored the farm, I couldn't help but marvel at the beauty of this place. When I asked Phil McGrath, a fifth-generation farmer, about the value of this land, he shared that his friends at The Nature Conservancy consider it a treasure trove, with a diversity of flora and fauna unmatched by other Mediterranean regions. But as fertile as the soil is, Phil explained that the increasing demand for year-round availability of all kinds of produce forces many farmers to rely on chemicals. He emphasized that all the farmers in the area are good farmers who want to do the right thing. Still, they are responding to consumer demand for continuous availability of produce.
Phil's approach to farming is deeply rooted in traditional methods. He practices organic farming, avoiding soil fumigants and relying instead on crop rotations and other organic methods to improve soil health. He believes that the best way to care for the soil is to plant various crops, which is what the soil naturally wants.
During our conversation, I mentioned the "Dirty Dozen," a list of fruits and vegetables that are best bought organically. Phil agreed, noting that berries, in particular, are very absorbent and can take in a lot of chemicals when sprayed. He pointed out that even if produce isn't organic, consuming what's in season is better for the environment because it requires less water, fewer inputs, and fewer chemicals.
McGrath Family Farms is now one of the largest organic farms in Southern California, and Phil is spreading the message about the importance of organic farming. He believes that the best health insurance policy one can have is eating correctly, and he's seen a shift in his customer base over the years. Whereas his crops once primarily reached affluent, educated people, they are now enjoyed by a broader range of individuals, including those on fixed incomes who understand the value of organic food.
Phil shared his concerns about the health issues plaguing our society, such as ADD, diabetes, and obesity, which he believes are linked to what we feed our families and children. He emphasized that as our planet becomes more populated, it's crucial to adopt more sustainable farming practices, if not going completely organic.
Inspired by Phil's passion and dedication, I decided to gather fresh, seasonal ingredients from the farm for my friend, Chef Obaire, to cook with at Café del Rey in the Marina. It's a reminder that the choices we make about our food have far-reaching impacts on our health and the health of our planet.
For more information about the McGrath Family Far, visit: https://www.storeatmcgrath.com/
Comments