During the 1980's Jim Cochran worked with farmworker-owned cooperatives growing conventionally farmed strawberries in the Salinas area. After a few serious pesticide exposures, he determined to try farming strawberries on a commercial scale without the use of dangerous chemicals. Leasing a four-acre plot in Swanton Valley, near Davenport, Swanton Berry Farm began that journey and became Certified Organic in 1987.

Just as the process of organic certification formalizes Swanton Berry Farm’s commitment to a set of ethics in our farming practices, a Union contract similarly formalizes our commitment to the human side of the farming equation. The fundamental question that drives this duality is why treat your food with a set of standards but not those who plant and harvest that same food?

In 1998, Swanton Berry Farm became the first organic farm in America to sign a contract with the United Farm Workers, AFL-CIO.

The combination of organic farming practices with union labor is why Swanton Berry Farm is known for producing fruits, jams, and baked goods that are beyond compare. We are dedicated to doing things honorably, whether it’s how we grow our crops, or how we treat our workers. It’s a difference you can taste, come see for yourself.

Farm Activities

Open Sunday, October 11 from 10-4pm
People will be able to learn about the farms unique history and the current challenges facing our farm worker community. How the farm continues their committment to growing high quality organic food and to the health and wellness of numerous employees that operate their farm and food productions.

Farm History Presentation with Jim Cochran at: 11am & 2pm.

Berry Mixology with David Lugo Vahy

Strawberry U-Pick all day.
Picnic area and Farm Store are open. 

Products For Sale

Their Farm Store carries a wide variety of jams, baked goods and pies all made from what they grow.

Know Your Farmer – Know Your Food