Notes From the Editor
By Paulette Swallow, Sustainable Ag Coordinator
on behalf of the editorial team, David Lewis and Julia Van Soelen Kim
I appreciate how roles in this industry have changed and have allowed me to pursue a career in agriculture off the ranch. Today, the roots of these role changes can be found in numerous organizations and individuals throughout our country. For me, the North Bay Dairy Women has been a direct influence in my life and career choice. Much like in 1965, many North Bay Dairy Women continue to support the efforts of the dairy industry trying to meet changing consumer demands, with thoughts of an uncertain market always looming in the back of their minds. Many of them continue to adapt to the needs of the ranch and their family, at the same time. They may drive the truck and trailer load of heifers to a new field for grazing, jump in the silage truck, or stay on the tractor well into the night to get the ground work done and seed planted before the rain comes. If I had to tell you what keeps them going, and what made them choose this life – it is their commitment to the dairy industry, the love for their land, and the pride in the products they produce.
The same commitment and pride can be seen in many of Marin County’s ranchers. Some of these families have been around for 100 years or more. Over the decades we have seen a vast change in the markets and in the diversity of agriculture. Diversity has played a key role in the survival of many of Marin’s ranches. It has offered expansion, product development, refinement in farming practices and continued innovation during market downturns and the change in consumer demand. Our Marin County ranchers are brilliant innovators, who aspire to move forward producing the best product they know how. This fall we will celebrate their success at the Point Reyes Dance Palace on October 21st – our hats go off to our ranching community and we look forward to honoring you.