California Today

Sierra Valley Farms: A Family Legacy of Small-Scale Agriculture

24 May 2026 15:10

Sierra Valley Farms in Plumas County is a five-acre organic farm run by Gary Romano, continuing a family legacy of agriculture since 1907. - The farm specializes in cool-season greens, arugula, carrots, and other vegetables, sold at farmers markets and the only certified on-farm market in California.

- Romano has documented climate change through 35 years of weather records, noting a shift from 6–8 days over 90°F to nearly 60 days in 2024. - The farm uses regenerative organic methods, no synthetic inputs, and adapts planting schedules to warmer conditions.

This story highlights the resilience of small-scale farming in a state dominated by industrial agriculture.

Tags

Berry CreekSierra ValleyBlairsdenagricultureclimate changeorganic farmingsmall-scale farmingYolo CountyPlumas CountyLocal