While it is still in the early stages, more farms are becoming Regenerative Organic Certified® as an add-on to their USDA organic certification to better differentiate themselves in the market. However, what does regenerative mean? "For us, it means enhancing the vitality of our orchards and soil, as well as improving the quality of life of our people," says Sean Gilbert, owner and president of Gilbert Orchards in Yakima, Washington. "Our family operation has deep roots in the Yakima Valley, and we're committed to caring for the land, conserving resources, and supporting a healthier environment for future generations," added Gilbert Plath, Washington Fruit Growers' Chief Sustainability Officer.
Left: Sean Gilbert. Right: Gilbert Plath.
Benefits soil, environment, and community
Why was the decision made to apply for a Regenerative Organic certification? "There are a lot of certifications that farmers can choose from. We were looking for one that would align best with our organic-focused mission and resonate with our customers," Sean Gilbert said. The family has been farming organically since the 1980s and when Gilbert learned about the Regenerative Organic Alliance (ROA), he was inspired by the way they look at the farm as a holistic system for the benefit of the soil, the environment, and the community. "I felt that it aligned well with many things we were already doing as well as the direction our company is heading." It helped Washington Fruit Growers and Gilbert Orchards continue to refine how they support their workforce and land, empowering employees to take positive action as new policies became part of the company culture.
Organic Fuji orchard.
Leading the way
Washington Fruit Growers and their grower-partner, Gilbert Orchards, went the extra mile to achieve this certification for their apples and cherries. "As early adopters, we are leading the tree fruit industry in assuring our customers that the fruit they enjoy is produced by growers who are committed to the best practices in the world for responsible and ethical stewardship of their farms," commented Gilbert Plath. The Regenerative Organic brand allows growers and shippers to educate consumers on the effort they've put into improving farm and employee well-being. This allows consumers to make a well-considered decision and reward good actors in the produce section. At the end of the day, Gilbert added, "this certification is part of a bigger mission to ensure farming makes the world a better place for all stakeholders in the process." The certification is being evaluated and renewed annually by the Regenerative Organic Alliance.
Mustard cover crop.
Washington Fruit Growers will be exhibiting at the Organic Produce Summit next week. Visit the team at booth #238.
For more information:
Lauren Roberts
Washington Fruit Growers
[email protected]
www.washfruitgrowers.com
https://regenorganic.org/