“I believe responsible produce growers across the country share a deep commitment to the highest standards of best industry practices,” says Jeff Hitchcock, CEO of Boggiatto Produce in Salinas, CA. For many, the importance of sustainable agriculture spans multiple generations. “Even before agroecology became a science, we knew our operations affected the fields, water and crops we all depend on,” Hitchcock continued. “Our goal is to meet today’s market demand while preserving the viability of our industry’s future.”
“In our industry, we want to maximize productivity without sacrificing quality and we recognize that is not possible when soil and water integrity are compromised year after year. What we do impacts our environment and our communities as much as it affects our bottom line. I feel there clearly are long-term benefits of sustainable practices in the field.”
Jeff Hitchcock in artichoke field
More productive fields
Boggiatto Produce uses a variety of strategies to preserve the land. It's the company’s biggest asset, so all its efforts to maximize yield are based on eco-friendly practices. “Here in California, we rotate crops between our fields in the Salinas Valley and Imperial Valley,” shared Hitchcock. “This allows our land to naturally replenish vital nutrients season after season. We also plant cover crops along ditches and roads through our acreage to provide additional natural sources of soil nutrients.” These non-cash crops help control erosion and add to overall field productivity.
Cleaner water and reduced irrigation
Water conservation is a way of life in the field. “We use drip irrigation when possible, and we carefully monitor the weather, equipment and our fields to make sure we maximize efficient water distribution.” Boggiatto’s produce is washed and packed in the field. This ensures that water used during the process goes back into the soil and not down a sewage system. Drought-resistant crops play a significant role in the company’s efforts to reduce water usage and the impact on the area's groundwater supply.
Boggiatto Produce field safety meeting
Positive contributions to our communities
“Over the years, we've forged strong connections with our communities. Our operations provide employment opportunities, avenues for advancement, fair wages and safe working conditions,” mentioned Hitchcock. “We regularly contribute produce to regional food banks and make financial donations to area organizations.”
Financial sustainability
“It takes financial sustainability to maintain best practices in the field and financial success allows us to invest in new eco-friendly technologies.” As responsible members of the industry, we help finance research and development that improves field crop production and food safety. We do this by funding groups such as United Fresh and Leaf Greens Marketing Agreement.
Contact:
Jeff Hitchcock
Boggiatto Produce, Inc.
Tel: (831) 424-8952