Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Advocates for Sustainable Agriculture in Ventura County
Farm Bureau Of Ventura County has been a steadfast advocate for local farmers and ranchers since 1914. Our mission centers on preserving agricultural heritage through policy advocacy, sustainable resource management, and community education. We address critical issues like water supply sustainability, pest control, and regulatory compliance while fostering collaboration between agricultural stakeholders and policymakers. With over a century of experience, we provide tools, resources, and representation to ensure the agricultural community thrives.Our work extends beyond farm support to include public education about local food systems and land stewardship. Through initiatives like the Ventura County Agricultural Irrigated Lands Group (VCAILG), we help growers meet environmental regulations while protecting their livelihoods. We maintain non-partisan, independent operations focused on the long-term viability of Ventura County's agricultural landscape.
Services
Agricultural Advocacy
Water Policy Management
Pest Control Support
Regulatory Compliance
Educational Programs
Details
- Year established: 1914
Highlights and features
- We have over 100 years of experience advocating for Ventura County agriculture
- Our team leads water sustainability initiatives through VCAILG compliance programs
- We provide specialized pest management resources for local crops
- We offer policy expertise in land-use and agricultural regulations
- Our organization represents 90% of irrigated farmland in the county
Services
Agricultural Advocacy
We represent Ventura County's agricultural community in local policy discussions, promoting sustainable land-use practices and protecting farming interests. Our advocacy ensures farmers have access to necessary resources while balancing environmental concerns. We work with legislators and community leaders to maintain agriculture's vital role in the region's economy and landscape.
Water Policy Management
Our water program addresses groundwater management through the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA) compliance. We help farmers implement efficient irrigation practices while monitoring basin health. We coordinate with local agencies to ensure fair water distribution policies that support both agricultural and urban needs in the region.
Pest Control Support
We provide resources for managing invasive pests threatening local crops, including the Asian citrus psyllid and polyphagous shot hole borer. Our programs combine chemical treatments, biological controls, and cultural practices to protect agricultural productivity while minimizing environmental impact through integrated pest management strategies.
Regulatory Compliance
Through VCAILG, we help growers meet state water quality regulations by implementing best management practices. Our programs reduce agricultural runoff through improved irrigation techniques, soil management, and monitoring systems that ensure compliance while maintaining farm profitability and environmental stewardship.
Educational Programs
We offer training on sustainable farming practices, water conservation techniques, and pest management strategies. Our educational initiatives include workshops, field demonstrations, and resource materials that help farmers adapt to changing environmental conditions and regulatory requirements while maintaining productive operations.
People
Maureen McGuire
Chief Executive Officer
Maureen leads our organization with over 25 years of agricultural policy experience, focusing on water rights and sustainable farming practices. She has represented Ventura County agriculture before state and federal agencies since 2008.
Cheri Iadevaia
Business Manager & Membership Coordinator
Cheri oversees membership operations and administrative functions, connecting local farmers with our resources and advocacy programs. She has served in agricultural administration roles for 15+ years, specializing in member services and policy implementation.
Jodi Switzer
Water Program Director
Jodi manages our water policy initiatives, including SGMA implementation and VCAILG compliance programs. With a background in environmental science and agricultural water management, she has directed water quality programs since 2010.
Questions
What is Farm Bureau of Ventura County's primary mission?
We advocate for local farmers and ranchers through policy work, water resource management, and pest control programs while preserving agricultural heritage and promoting sustainable practices.
How does the organization support water sustainability?
We manage VCAILG compliance programs, implement groundwater sustainability plans under SGMA, and promote efficient irrigation practices to ensure long-term water availability for agriculture.
What pest control resources do you provide?
We offer integrated pest management strategies including biological controls, chemical treatments, and cultural practices to combat invasive species threatening local crops like strawberries and citrus.
Can non-farmers join your organization?
Yes, anyone who supports local agriculture can join - including residents, business owners, and community members interested in preserving farmland and promoting local food systems.
How do you help farmers with regulations?
We provide compliance assistance through programs like VCAILG, help navigate environmental regulations, and represent agricultural interests in policy discussions to reduce regulatory burdens.
